Absence of defense advocate leads to postponement

The Radzuma brothers' case was postponed once again when Advocate Ntsako Hlongwane, the legal representative of one of the three accused, Percy Radzuma, failed to show up at the Limpopo High Court in Thohoyandou for the trial on Tuesday, 12 December. The Radzuma brothers are facing charges related to the murder of Timson Musetsho (50) and Ronald Mani (50), two SAMWU officials who were fatally shot in 2019. The victims were known for their outspoken criticism of the Vhembe District Municipality regarding its questionable investment of R300 million in the now-failed VBS Mutual Bank.

On Tuesday, Judge Thogomelani Tshidada inquired about Hlongwane's absence, expressing concern that his frequent non-appearances were causing delays in the trial. The judge was informed that Hlongwane was reported to be unwell since the previous day. In response to the situation, Percy, noticing his legal representative's absence, raised a point of order and threatened to reveal significant information regarding the murder of the SAMWU members at their next court appearance.

The other two Radzuma brothers, Simon and Ndivhuwo, are represented by Advocate Gundo Lidovho. The case was subsequently postponed to 5 February 2024.

Date:14 December 2023

By: Silas Nduvheni

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