The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial continues today, Friday, 6 June 2025, at the Gauteng High Court in Pretoria, following a heated day in court that saw Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng strongly criticising delays and courtroom conduct.
What to expect from the Senzo Meyiwa trial today
The ongoing cross-examination of lead investigator Brigadier Bongani Gininda by Advocate Charles Mnisi is expected to resume, with more questions surrounding the arrest of accused number one, Muzi Sibiya.
On Thursday, courtroom tensions reached a peak after Judge Mokgoatlheng reacted sharply to news that Mnisi intended to be absent from Monday’s proceedings due to his participation in the Comrades Marathon.
The judge voiced strong disapproval, emphasising the importance of the case and the long wait for justice by Meyiwa’s family and the accused, who have spent years in custody awaiting trial.
In his remarks, Judge Mokgoatlheng criticised what he called a disregard for the seriousness of the trial.
He argued that personal events such as athletic competitions should not interfere with court schedules, referencing other judges who participate in sports without allowing it to disrupt their duties.
The judge stated that requests like Mnisi’s could never be made in similar circumstances by white advocates, describing the situation as “unacceptable” and highlighting the broader concerns around the trial’s delays.
Mnisi’s participation in the marathon was communicated via the judge’s registrar, a method of communication that drew further rebuke from the bench. Attorney Sipho Ramosepele and state prosecutor
Advocate George Baloyi defended the practice, confirming that it is standard for defence attorneys to correspond through registrars. Nevertheless, the judge maintained that the decision showed a lack of seriousness regarding the case.
The courtroom also heard that Judge Mokgoatlheng was displeased with Mnisi’s previous comments referring to a retired police officer as “the dumbest cop in South Africa.” He deemed the remark insulting and reiterated the importance of respectful courtroom conduct, particularly when addressing witnesses.
Despite these outbursts, the trial continues today with Brigadier Gininda still on the witness stand.
The focus remains on the circumstances surrounding the arrest and alleged mistreatment of the accused.
Mnisi has accused police officers of assaulting Sibiya during his arrest, including while he was blindfolded.
Gininda has denied any knowledge of such incidents and stated that no injuries were reported to him at the time.
Watch the Senzo Meyiwa trial live here
Today’s proceedings will be streamed live from the Pretoria High Court and you can tune in below:
