Calm faces as Seretse & Co make appearance
Mpho Mokwape | Monday March 16, 2026 06:00
The case, which first gripped the nation when its details emerged in 2019, continues to draw wider public and media attention.
From the moment proceedings began, the atmosphere inside the courtroom was notably subdued. The accused persons sat calmly in the dock, their composure contrasting with the weight of the allegations they face.
They are charged with offences that include corruption and money laundering, accusations tied to the controversial handling of funds for the country’s petroleum reserves. Despite the seriousness of the charges, the accused maintained a cool and collected demeanour throughout the brief appearance. They maintained calm expressions throughout the court appearance, showing little emotion as the charges connected to the controversial petroleum fund case were formally read to them.
Few words were exchanged as lawyers and court officials moved through the procedural steps of the hearing.
The public and the media in the courtroom watched quietly, aware that the case remains one of the most closely followed financial scandals in recent times.
After hearing submissions, the court granted the accused bail. Each was released on P20, 000.00 bail, while their sureties are required to bind themselves with P10, 000.00.
Outside the courtroom, the mood was markedly different. Journalists thrust their cameras and mobile phones towards the faces of the accused, hoping to capture a telling moment as the accused rushed through the crowd to the comfort of their cars.
Later, journalists gathered in clusters, their discussions animated as they compared notes and prepared updates.
The energy amongst members of the media echoed the same mood that prevailed in 2019 when the NPF scandal first broke, a reminder of the public interest that still surrounds the matter.
Many reporters lingered long after the proceedings ended, determined to capture every development in a case that continues to command national attention.
For them, the court appearance marked not just another hearing, but a significant chapter in a story that has remained in the spotlight for years.
As the accused left the court premises following their release on bail, the calm that characterised their courtroom appearance persisted. Yet beyond the courtroom walls, the debate and scrutiny surrounding the NPF scandal remain very much alive.
Meanwhile, the accused have not yet pleaded to the charges. The case continues on April 14 for a status hearing.