A recent development has raised concerns about potential delays in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial.
Sifisokuhle Ntuli illness threatens delays in Senzo Meyiwa trial
Sifisokuhle Nkani Ntuli, one of the accused individuals, reported feeling unwell on Tuesday, prompting the presiding Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng to order that Ntuli be attended to by a doctor.
During the trial proceedings, Ntuli informed the court that he was not feeling well and that his condition was deteriorating. His defence advocate, Zandile Mshololo, requested an adjournment so that Ntuli could receive medical attention.
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In response to the request, Judge Mokgoatlheng ordered that Ntuli be seen by a doctor. A report on Ntuli’s medical condition is expected to be presented in court on the following day, as instructed by the judge.
Mshololo indicated that Ntuli’s availability for the court session scheduled for the next day would depend on the medical advice they received regarding his condition.
A prison official from Leeuwkop prison, where Ntuli is incarcerated, provided insights into the medical facilities available to sick prisoners. While the facility has a clinic staffed with nursing sisters, doctors may not always be readily available.
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Sifisokuhle Nkani Ntuli is among several individuals on trial for the murder of Senzo Meyiwa.
Meyiwa, a prominent South African footballer who played for Bafana Bafana and Orlando Pirates, was tragically killed. The accused face a range of charges, including premeditated murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravated circumstances, possession of firearms without a license, and possession of ammunition.
Ntuli’s reported illness raises concerns about potential disruptions to the trial proceedings.
Alas, court proceedings are scheduled to resume on Wednesday.