Former Mayor back in court for conspiracy to commit murder
In court, the former Speaker revealed how the then Endumeni Mayor allegedly called her to Newcastle to discuss a security tender.
Former Endumeni Mayor, Richard Mbatha and two co-accused are back in the Estcourt Magistrate’s Court.
They face charges relating to the 2018 conspiracy to murder former Councillor Speaker and IFP Councillor, Bongiwe Mbatha-Makhathini. Mr Mbatha, Estcourt IFP Councillor, Mthembeni Majola and the alleged hitman, Xolani Makhathini have all pleaded not guilty to the charges.
Monday’s court proceedings ended with evidence being given by Ms Mbatha-Makhathini, before Magistrate Shoba. Before her explosive testimony, Defence Advocate, Kay Augustine clashed with the prosecution regarding the correct charges faced by the trio of accused.
Mr Majola began by objecting to the charges being read out by State Prosecutor, Ms Nel. Adv Augustine insisted amendments be made to the charges, and the court stood down for the necessary changes to be brought into effect, after which the trial resumed.
Prior to agreeing the charge sheet be amended, Adv Augustine said, “The defence takes great objection to the charge sheet, as it is very vague.”
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In her testimony, Ms Mbatha-Makhathini told the court that shortly after a security tender was advertised, she was contacted by the then Mayor [Richard Mbatha]. He asked her to meet him at the Tramonto Hotel in Newcastle. She was told to attend the meeting without her bodyguards, but refused as she could not drive herself.
After arriving at the hotel, she met with Mbatha and Mofethi Mosia, owner of Ocean’s Dawn Security. She overheard conversations regarding money – initially R800 000. She and her security team then left. Ms Mbatha-Makhathini said she was not involved in further conversation with either person.
Proceedings ended with her being cross-examined by the defence. The trial is expected to continue throughout the week.
Follow the Courier on our social media platforms for updates on each day of the trial proceedings.
ALSO READ: Bail hearing underway for Mayor Mbatha
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