Controversial traditional healer Makhotso Mofokeng, widely known as Gogo Maweni, was released on R5,000 bail today at the Protea Magistrates Court.
Court hears Gogo Maweni is expecting twins
During the proceedings, it was revealed that Maweni is expecting twins, a detail disclosed in her affidavit submitted as part of her bail application.
Maweni, who is facing a charge of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, appeared calm as her legal team presented her case.
She was arrested last week after handing herself over to police at the Mondeor Police Station in connection with an alleged assault incident in December 2024.
The state alleges that she attacked the complainant with a bottle during a heated altercation.
The court also heard that Maweni has four previous convictions dating back to 2015.
The prosecutor highlighted these prior cases to argue against bail, citing a potential pattern of violent behaviour.
However, Maweni’s defence emphasided her cooperation with authorities, including her voluntary surrender, and her pregnancy, arguing that she posed no flight risk.
Maweni’s release was met with celebration by her supporters, who gathered outside the courthouse.
Videos of family and friends cheering as she exited the court have gone viral online.
When is her next court appearance?
The case has been postponed to 11 February 2025, for disclosure of evidence. Maweni’s legal team is expected to prepare for a potential trial in connection with the assault charges.
The allegations surrounding Maweni have intensified due to separate accusations made by fellow traditional healer Patricia “Gogo Skhotheni” Motsoeneng.
In a widely viewed TikTok live session, Skhotheni accused Maweni of involvement in two murder cases.
The first allegation involves the death of her best friend’s husband, known as King Precious, who was reportedly ambushed and fatally shot.
Skhotheni alleged that Maweni manipulated Precious into luring her husband outside under false pretences, leading to the fatal attack.
Skhotheni also claimed that Maweni bribed law enforcement to suppress evidence and that Maweni’s brother gave a police statement asserting that she had confessed to orchestrating the murder while intoxicated.
The second accusation concerns the death of one of Maweni’s initiates, Jabu Mahlangu, though details of this case remain unclear.
Skhotheni has vowed to bring these matters to light and warned of potential threats to her safety.
It must be noted, though, that Maweni has not been formally charged with the murder allegations.