Samwu murder trial hit by another delay in Limpopo court
Percy Radzuma’s dismissal of his lawyer caused another delay in the VBS-linked Samwu murder trial, leaving victims’ families frustrated
LIMPOPO – The high-profile murder and hijacking trial of the Radzuma brothers has been postponed once again, after one of the accused, Percy Radzuma, abruptly terminated the services of his legal representative during proceedings in the Limpopo High Court, sitting at the Waterval Magistrate’s Court, last Monday.
The case, which involves more than 40 counts, including murder, attempted murder and car hijacking, has faced repeated delays since it began in 2019.
Percy, along with his brothers Simon and Ndivhuwo, stands accused of orchestrating a string of violent crimes, including the 2019 murders of Vhembe District Municipality Samwu leaders, Ronald Mani and Timpson Musetsho, who had publicly criticised the municipality’s investment of R300m into the collapsed VBS Mutual Bank.
Accused parts ways with lawyer mid-hearing
Court proceedings descended into chaos when Percy stood up and told the court he wished to part ways with his lawyer, Adv Ntsako Hlongwane, accusing him of neglecting the case.
“It’s been almost three months since we last discussed my matter. He spends more time on social media than communicating with me,” Percy told the court.
Outside the courtroom, Hlongwane dismissed the allegations.
Families frustrated by constant delays
The development has caused further frustration for the families of the slain unionists. Rabelani Mphaphuli, spokesperson for both the Musetsho and Mani families, said the delay was devastating.
“Just when the defence was supposed to present its case, Percy dismissed his lawyer. This feels like a delay tactic. Justice has already been dragged out since 2019, we can’t wait any longer,” said Mphaphuli.
Judge Thogomelani Tshidada described the development as a major setback and postponed the case to November 6 to allow Percy time to secure new legal representation. So far, 150 state witnesses have already testified. The victims’ families say they remain hopeful that justice will ultimately prevail.
