Matiiphandile Sotheni (41), accused of the murder of Brenthurst resident Marius van der Merwe, spoke out in the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court this morning (Wednesday), to deny the charges against him.

The appearance was initially to make a bail application, but this was postponed by the court to May 14 by request of Sotheni’s new representation, Eric Breyer.

It was accepted by the prosecution, Adv Nqobile Maphalala and Trott Mphahlele, who noted that they will use the time to further investigate the case.

A cellphone download and mapping, other possible suspects and the matter of the lost firearm that was used in the murder are items that still need to be investigated.

Just before the court was dismissed Sotheni appealed to the judge to hear his plea, saying that he was not involved in the murder of Van der Merwe.

“I deny it fully, I have nothing to do with the crime,” he said.

The magistrate, Moses Segone, told the accused that he is represented, and should address the matter through his representation.

This did not stop Sotheni, however, as he continued talking until he was forced down the stairs into the holding cells below the court.

“I wish to assist the court your worship, because the lawyer here, it’s the first time I’ve seen him. He did not even take my statement,” Sotheni said.

“I stand here for something I did not commit. I’m on social media, everywhere, my name and face are painted. So, your worship, for postponing this case, delaying this, I’m ready for my statement, I’m ready to say what happened.”

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