Dlamini trial postponed to Thursday after state fails to consult witness
The trial against former Minister of Social Development Bathabile Dlamini has been postponed for a day after the state failed to consult with a witness.
The trial was meant to start on Wednesday.
According to the state, witness Zodwa Mvulane, who lives in the North West, was served a subpoena and arrangements were made for virtual consultations.
However, Mvulane could not be reached on consultation day.
“She was not able to be reached on the date given for consultation but is in court today but has not been consulted yet. We submit that it would be unfair to put the witness is the box without her being consulted,” said the state prosecutors.
Magistrate Betty Khumalo expressed surprise by the request for postponement, but due to the trial being held over two days the postponement was granted.
“As much as I am surprised that the state has found itself in this position, I am consoled that this is not the only day (for the trial). Maybe it was an oversight on part of the state to not alert the defence about the predicament which I find is not a good oversight.
“I’m inclined to indulge the state and we can still resume with the matter tomorrow,” said Khumalo.
Dlamini, who has pleaded as not guilty, has been charged with perjury after she allegedly lied under oath.
The charges relate to her testimony during an inquiry established by the Constitutional Court into her role in the 2017 social grants crisis.
In September 2018, the Constitutional Court found that Dlamini not only failed in her duties as minister but also failed to disclose information to the inquiry for fear of being held liable.
ALSO READ:
