Extension II Chief Magistrate Kamogelo Mmesi has postponed the trial of a former University of Botswana lecturer (UB) and Botswana Congress Party (BCP) member, Brothers Malema, who stands accused of sexually abusing a student, to tomorrow. The defence cited ill health.
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 on January 9, 2024, who is now 19. At the time, the alleged sexual violence by Malema took place within university premises when he was still a professor.
In court, the state, represented by Prosecutor Mmapatsi Tshimologo, stated that they are ready to commence with the trial and have witnesses who are ready to take the stand.
“This matter is scheduled for commencement of trial and the state is more than ready to commence as planned,” Tshimologo said.
However, Busang Manewe of the defence pleaded with the court that the trial be postponed. Initially, the trial was allocated three days, running from today to Wednesday this week.
“We are not ready to proceed this morning. Hopefully, we will be able to commence tomorrow as I have a sore throat — at a wedding from over the weekend,” Manewe said.
Asked by the defence if the court has any qualms with the trial commencing tomorrow, Tshimologo said they are not against the thought.
“Ordinarily, we are ready to commence, but the counsel is feeling unwell. So, may we commence tomorrow?” he asked.
With the state in agreement with the defence plea made, Mmesi postponed the case to tomorrow at 9:30am. The case continues.
