State wants defence lawyer to withdraw from Sindiso Magaqa murder trial

The murder trial of African National Congress (ANC) politician Sindiso Magaqa has been delayed once again as the State fights to remove one of the lawyers from the case.

The matter returned to the Pietermaritzburg High Court for trial on Monday.

For the first time, the alleged mastermind, Stanley Sikhosana, appeared with his co-accused.

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However, the prosecution said that the presence of Advocate Shane Matthews may affect trial proceedings.

Former Umzimkhulu municipal manager Sikhosana has been joined with co-accused, Sibonelo Myeza, and Mbulelo Mpofana in the high-profile murder case. 

The group is charged with murder and conspiracy to commit murder, among other charges, in relation to the 2017 murder of Magaqa.

However, during court proceedings, lead State prosecutor, Advocate Lawrence Gcaba, told the court that he would bring an application to have Matthews withdraw from the case.

This as he previously represented Sibusiso Ncengwa, who is now a State witness. 

The case has been postponed to 7 November for the State to bring its application.