Bishop Stephen Zondo lawyers say he’s ready to take witness stand

JOHANNESBURG - Lawyer for rape-accused Bishop Stephen Zondo say he is ready to take the witness stand in court and give his version of events.  

Zondo is accused of the rape and sexual assault of his congregants and staff.  

The leader of the Rivers of Living Water Church is also accused of raping a seven-year-old girl in 1980. 

The State has closed its case against him and the defence must now open its case, but Zondo wants the presiding judge to be removed.  

After Zondo’s failed Section 174 discharge application, it is time for him to open his case.  

But he now wants Judge Papi Mosopa to recuse himself, claiming he has already made a judgment against him.  

This is because Mosopa said the evidence given so far is credible, reliable, and trustworthy.  

However, attorney Kabelo Seabi said the judge must comment on the quality of the evidence.  

“Just because the presiding officer has declared that the evidence at the end of the State’s case could possibly lead to a conviction, that is not an expression of bias.”  

Zondo’s lawyers will bring their argument for recusal in April.