Dramatic scenes unfolded in the Thohoyandou Magistrate's Court on Monday, 10 July, as Magistrate Farhana Hussain had to wait for at least 40 minutes for court officials to locate Advocate Ntsako Hlungwane. Hlungwane, known for handling high-profile cases, was supposed to represent the accused, Mashudu Bele, in his bail application for charges of kidnapping, rape, and murder. However, Hlungwane did not inform the court or his client about his absence on Monday.
When Magistrate Hussain asked Bele about the whereabouts of his legal counsel, Bele claimed he was unaware. "The last time I spoke to him (Hlungwane), he assured me that he would meet me here in court today," Bele stated.
State prosecutor Makwela Angela Mmashoka informed the court that she had attempted to contact Hlungwane on more than six cellphone numbers but had been unsuccessful. Bele also provided the court with Hlungwane's office numbers, but calls made during the proceedings went to voicemail.
Mmashoka then introduced the state witness, Captain Kotlolo Patrick Pila, and confirmed their readiness for the bail application.
The magistrate adjourned the case to Thursday, 13 July, to allow the accused to coordinate with his legal counsel and find a mutually convenient date for the continuation of the bail application.
During the court proceedings, members of the Vhembe Concerned Group marched outside the courthouse, chanting slogans such as "No bail for GBV offenders" and "Bele should rot in jail".
Ms Thelma Marole, a DA councillor in the Thulamela Local Municipality, expressed her opinion that Bele should not be granted bail. "This is a high-profile case that impacts the fight against gender-based violence (GBV). Women are being killed in our society every day. We urge the NPA and the justice system to protect women and children and demonstrate that they have the right to live freely in this country by denying him bail," she stated.