The state is set to proceed to trial in a case involving retired University of Botswana (UB) professor and suspended member of Botswana Congress Party (BCP), Brothers Malema, after bringing up eight witnesses against the accused.
Malema is facing a single count of rape of a UB student (name withheld). He is accused of sexually violating the 18-year-old student back in January 9, 2024. At the time, the alleged sexual violence by Malema took place within university premises when he was still a professor.
Appearing before Extension II Magistrates' Court yesterday (Monday), Prosecutor Mmapatsi Tshimologo stated that the prosecution is more than ready to head to trial as this is an old matter.
“We have since managed to serve the accused with witness statements that are eight. In addition to those witness statements there is also a medical form and the forensic affidavit that will be exhibited during the trial court,” Tshimologo said.
Having served the accused person with all the documents needed for a trial, Tshimologo made a plea before the presiding magistrate Kamogelo Mmesi that a trial date be set.
“We can proceed to set the trial dates for this case and we feel that two to three days would suffice for the trial,” he said.
Meanwhile, Malema acknowledged that he has been served by the state with all the documents but made no admissions.
“We have received all the documents and no admissions will be made. I suggest that we proceed to set trial dates,” he said.
Taking into consideration the pleas made by two parties, Magistrate Mmesi set the trial later in the year.
“The trial is set for September 8, 9, and 10, 2025. There will be no mention date until then, we will convene on the 8th for trial,” she ordered.
Malema will await trial out on bail. The case continues.
