She Knows Something: Kelly Khumalo ‘s Lawyer ‘s Withdrawal from Senzo Meyiwa Murder Trial Sparks Controversy and Twitter Frenzy
Magdalene Moonsamy has withdrawn as Kelly Khumalo’s legal representative in the high-profile murder trial of Bafana Bafana keeper Senzo Meyiwa, who was tragically killed on October 26, 2014, while visiting Khumalo, his girlfriend and the mother of his child, in Vosloorus, Johannesburg.
Five men, namely Bongani Sandiso Ntanzi, Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya, Mthobisi Mncube, Mthokoziseni Maphisa, and Sifokuhle Ntuli, have been arrested and face charges of murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, as well as possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition related to Meyiwa’s murder.
Moonsamy submitted her notice of withdrawal to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) on Wednesday, signalling her decision to step away from the case.
What Was The Lawyer’s Role
In April of last year, Moonsamy was present during the proceedings, which were overseen by Judge Tshifhiwa Maumela. However, Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng has since taken over the case.
On Wednesday morning, Lumka Mahanjana, the Gauteng regional spokesperson for the NPA, confirmed to IOL that Moonsamy had formally requested to withdraw from the case.
Last year, Moonsamy stated that she had been appointed by Khumalo, who wished to closely follow the court proceedings. Moonsamy explained that her role was to ensure a thorough understanding of the case and facilitate direct engagement with the proceedings.
Mzansi Reacts As Kelly Khumalo’s Lawyer Steps Down
While the reasons behind her withdrawal were not disclosed publicly, the news generated discussions on Twitter. Some speculated that the lawyer intentionally caused delays in the trial, while others suggested that her withdrawal indicated her client’s guilt. However, some rightfully asserted that her withdrawal would not impact the trial.
Below are some of the comments:
@ManyovuG:
These lawyers are the ones who are delaying justice and obstructing justice. They need to be charged.Cases take longer because of their indecision. They take cases because they want income. The next thing they’re realise the case is unwinnable they run way.
They must be charged
@BigDhara11:
In simple terms the lawyer is saying she cant continue to defend lies under jury because it will have repercussions
@Shokwakhe16:
Moonsamy is a personal lawyer of a witness and it doesn’t affect the trial in any way whatsoever.