Marcus Moloko
The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial resumed on Monday at the Pretoria High Court, with the defence set to call its first witness, accused number one Muzi Sibiya.
The trial is set to uncover crucial details in the case which has gripped South Africa since the Bafana Bafana captain was fatally shot in 2014 at the Vosloorus home of his then girlfriend, singer Kelly Khumalo.
The defence team had asked for a postponement three weeks ago, arguing that they were consulting with individuals they planned to call as witnesses.
Lawyers representing the five men currently on trial for the murder have cited logistical challenges in reaching witnesses who are scattered across various provinces.
Some witnesses reportedly required accommodation and transport assistance to attend court proceedings, which further complicates proceedings.
The trial is presided over by Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng and resumes after nearly a three-month-long recess following the state’s conclusion of its case.
Over two years, the prosecution presented a series of witnesses and forensic evidence linking the accused to the crime.
Here are five key facts readers should know about the trial:
- The five men are on trial for the murder of Senzo Meyiwa, who was fatally shot on October 26, 2014.
- Kelly Khumalo was present at the scene and remains a central figure in public speculation, though she has not been charged.
- The defence is calling its first witness today, marking the start of its case after a lengthy delay.
- Witnesses require accommodation and logistical support, which has contributed to previous postponements.
- The trial has faced multiple delays, raising concerns about justice and transparency in high-profile cases.
Kelly Khumalo’s link to the case remains as a point of interest. While she has publicly denied involvement, even challenging authorities to arrest her if they believe she played a role, her presence at the crime scene and public statements have kept her in the spotlight, with critics questioning why she has not been called to testify.
Five men were arrested in connection with the murder of Bafana Bafana’s former number one goalkeeper. The accused are Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya, Bongani Ntanzi (accused number three), Mthobisi Mncube (accused number four), Mthokoziseni Maphisa, and Fisokuhle Nkani Ntuli (accused number five).
The men were arrested years after Meyiwa’s death, following renewed probes that contradicted earlier claims of a house robbery gone wrong.
The state contends that Meyiwa’s fatal murder was a contract hit.
Timeline of events
- 26 Oct 2014: Meyiwa is shot at Kelly Khumalo’s mother’s home in Vosloorus.
- 2014–2020: Case stagnates amid public outcry and conflicting narratives.
- Oct 2020: Five suspects arrested after a cold-case breakthrough.
- 2022–2023: Trial begins, but faces delays.
- July 2023: Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng takes over after Judge Maumela is suspended for delivering late judgments in numerous cases.
- July 2025: State closes its case after two years of testimony.
- October 2025: Defence begins its case, starting with its first witness.
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