Meyiwa murder trial starting from scratch ‘not all doom and gloom’
A new judge has been appointed to preside over the murder trial of five men accused of murdering former Bafana Bafana captain Senzo Meyiwa in 2014.
Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng will replace his colleague Tshifhiwa Maumela when the trial resumes on 17 July.
Last week, President Cyril Ramaphosa issued suspension letters to Judge Maumela and Nomonde Mngqibisa-Thusi for failure to deliver several reserved judgments within a reasonable time.
Ramaphosa’s move followed a recommendation by the Judicial Service Commission.
There have been several delays to the proceedings against the five men accused of gunning down the goalkeeper.
Maumela health has also been a factor, with the latest postponement due to the judge “not being available for a long time.”
Judicial watchdog group Judges Matter spokesperson Zikhona Ndlebe says the trial will have to start from scratch, and witnesses will be recalled to testify again before the new judge.
“Witnesses will have to be recalled to testify again before the new judge because he must consider the evidence presented all by himself to ensure fairness in the matter.
“Considering the fact that the newly appointed Judge Mokgoatlheng is retired, this means that he should have all the time to ensure the speedy finalisation of the case. He is also an experienced judge who has dealt with high-profile cases prior to his retirement. Although this means further delays, it is not all doom and gloom.”
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