De Jager’s attorney objects to media presence – proceedings delayed

WERNER de Jager’s appearance in the Amanzimtoti Magistrate’s Court today (February 22) got off to a false start as his defence, once again, objected to the presence of a news video camera in court.

Also read: De Jager arrives at Amanzimtoti Magistrate’s Court for bail decision

Huibré Lamprecht, who has been part of De Jager’s defence team since the case started, said she was not aware of any application by any media house that required having video cameras rolling in court during the proceedings. The leader of De Jager’s defence, Advocate André May, who was absent during the latest appearance, had raised similar objections in the past, questioning the presence of the media in court and asking Magistrate Zama Nyuswa to ‘control’ the journalists.

State prosecutor Gayle Greyling told the court that she had no qualms with the presence of a video camera rolling as it was not interfering with the proceedings.

“A static video camera that is quietly recording is not disturbing anyone. This is an open court, and the open justice principle should trump all,” said Greyling.

Magistrate Nyuswa adjourned the proceedings and asked Greyling and Lamprecht to meet her in her chambers to finalise the camera matter. By the time that meeting ended, it was already 13:00, and court staff had to break for lunch.

The case will proceed after lunch, and Magistrate Nyuswa will decide on the camera’s presence before making a ruling about De Jager’s bail application.

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