WHITE RIVER – A great deal of swagger was put on display in the White River Magistrate’s Court on Monday, much to the dismay of the magistrate who proceeded to cramp the accused’s style.
Mr Zwelethini Welcome Mkhabela (25) was charged with assault with the intent to commit grievous bodily harm after he allegedly assaulted the complainant, Ms Fortune Moremi. When Mkhabela was called to the accused dock on Monday, there was no denying his arrival in the courtroom. He strided along from the holding cells in a confident way, straightening his collar.
The magistrate, Mr Eddie Mabaso, took notice.
“Mr Mkhabela, I see you popping your shirt,” Mabaso noted drily. “I see you came here with swagger,” he added. “Are you okay?” He proceeded to inform Mkhabela that he would be sent to Weskoppies for mental observation in terms of Section 77 of the Criminal Procedure Act. Mkhabela’s hands rose to his hips in a sudden, prominent movement.
“Don’t hold your figure,” Mabaso warned. “It’s good if you like yourself, but not in here.” Mkhabela’s reaction to this reproval was not visible to those in the gallery, but the interpreter silently advised him to keep quiet with his hands. A stern look and a forefinger on the lips did the trick and Mkhabela was calmed.
The magistrate concluded his court appearance, “Once you came into this court, you started to dance.
“I dance with you by reminding you that the case is postponed and that your mental observation at Weskoppies will be arranged. Go and dance over there.” He pointed to the holding cells and sent Mkhabela on his way.
