Power outage delays Nelson Mandela funeral trial
The trial of former Buffalo City Metro officials and several businessmen has been postponed to Tuesday after a power failure at the High Court in Bhisho.
The trail was supposed to start on Monday.
They have been charged with fraud, money laundering, and contravention of the Municipal Finance Management Act relating to the funeral of former president Nelson Mandela in December 2013.
Amongst the accused are ANC Amatole Regional chairperson Phumlani Mkolo, former Buffalo City Speaker Luleka Simon-Ndzele, and former Mayor Zukiswa Ncitha.
The accused pleaded not guilty to misappropriating municipal funds meant to pay for the transport and other matters related to the funeral of Mandela.
National Prosecuting Authority spokesperson Luxolo Tyali says they are ready for the trial.
“As the State, we are ready to lead the first oral evidence from the first witness, actually we have two witnesses lined up. If there is no disruption like today, we expect the trial to proceed unless a new application is brought by the defence and that can delay the commencement of the trial.”
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