Nzama gets new lawyer as Matlala trial continues in Joburg High Court
The high-profile attempted murder trial of alleged underworld figure Vusimuzi ‘Cat' Matlala and his co-accused has seen a change in legal representation, with the lawyer for accused number five, Nthabiseng Nzama, withdrawing from the case.
On Wednesday, the Johannesburg High Court heard that attorney Timothy Chauke had applied to withdraw as Nzama's legal representative due to a lack of financial instructions.
Presiding Judge Cassim Moosa granted Chauke leave to withdraw, with Nardus Grové taking over the representation of Nzama for the remainder of the trial. Grové is already representing Nzama’s father and co-accused, Tiego Floyd Mabusela.
The court was informed that the change in legal counsel was agreed upon to avoid further delays in the lengthy trial.
Nzama, together with Matlala, his wife Tsakani Matlala, Mabusela and Musa Kekana, faces 25 charges linked to alleged failed assassination plots involving businessman Joe ‘Ferrari' Sibanyoni, socialite Tebogo Thobejane and music producer Seunkie Mokubung.
The charges include conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, fraud and money laundering. All five accused have pleaded not guilty.
Nzama faces three counts of money laundering.
The latest legal development comes days after Nzama’s application to be excused from parts of the trial was dismissed. She had asked the court to allow her to skip some proceedings to focus on her honours degree studies, arguing that much of the evidence being presented did not relate directly to her and that travelling daily between Pretoria and Johannesburg was a significant burden.
Judge Moosa dismissed the application, ruling that Nzama would be required to remain present for the duration of the proceedings.
The trial continues, with the state expected to continue presenting evidence against Matlala and his co-accused.
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