Defense Seeks Case Dismissal in Senzo Meyiwa Murder Trial as State Closes Case
The defense team pursues case dismissal representing suspects in the high-profile Senzo Meyiwa murder case has announced plans to file for a complete discharge of all charges against their clients. This development follows prosecutors’ conclusion of their case presentation without calling additional witnesses.
“We’re pursuing a full discharge application across all charges,” Mnisi told the Pretoria High Court.
Funding and Logistics Challenges Emerge
The defense revealed they would engage with the Legal Aid Board to secure financial support for the dismissal request, underscoring the case’s complex funding requirements. Meanwhile, the court addressed separate concerns regarding defendant treatment in custody.
Prison Conditions Dispute
Accused Fisokuhle Ntuli’s legal representative, Advocate Zandile Mshololo, raised allegations of mistreatment at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre. Mshololo claimed that her client faced inadequate living conditions, including being denied access to bedding and having restricted communication privileges.
Correctional Services official Mr. Khoza countered these claims, presenting evidence that Ntuli possessed unauthorised communication devices in his cell. “These allegations don’t reflect reality,” Khoza testified.
Defense Lawyers Pursue Case Dismissal in Senzo Meyiwa Murder Trial
Presiding Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng expressed frustration over recurring late starts to proceedings. “My concern is timely court appearances, not institutional disputes,” Mokgoatlheng stated while defending his decision to transfer Ntuli to Leeuwkop Prison.
Khoza assured the court of improved compliance, stating,
“We’ll ensure proper procedures are followed without conflict between our department and the accused.”
The judge maintained that any objections to his transfer order must follow proper legal channels.
The case continues as the defense prepares its dismissal application, marking a critical juncture in the long-running trial that has captivated South Africa since the former soccer star’s 2014 killing.
