The Senzo Meyiwa murder trial was postponed once again on today, after a third state witness objected to having the media record her testimony live, citing safety concerns. The popular singer, whom Zimoja earlier mentioned as Kelly's sister, Zandie Gumede, has also threatened to not give her testimony if her wishes are not granted. She said as a public figure, she refuses for her voice or face to be shown since she fears she will be mocked on social media. State Prosecutor Advocate George Baloyi brought this to the attention of the court on Monday morning claiming that he received an email from the witness on Sunday night.

NOT SPECIAL

The defense teams of the five accused are against this statement saying such matters were supposed to be discussed at the pre-trial conference not now when the trial is well underway. They also said, as agreed with the previous witnesses, their faces were not shown but for this witness to want to bar the media from recording her voice was simply pushing it. Therefore, they have rejected this request saying the witness cannot be given any "special treatment".

ARGUMENTS 

Advocate Ramosepele said: "Her objections are flimsy,.. I don't think her safety will be jeopardised," Advocate Mnisi said,"The family of the deceased is also following these proceedings. They want to know what happened. The team the deceased played for, Orlando Pirates players, want to know what is happening in this trial every step of the way." Advocate Mshololo added that, "We were never informed by this witness application. The state had the whole night. We are now being ambushed by the state. The said witness did a documentary with Netflix and was paid for it, she's not shy. Meyiwa was gunned down in 2014 at Kelly Khumalo's home in Vosloorus. The accused Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya, Bongani Sandiso Ntanzi, Mthobisi Prince Mncube, Mthokoziseni Maphisa, and Sifisokuhle Nkani Ntuli are charged with premeditated murder, attempted murder, robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of firearms without a licence and possession of ammunition. All have pleaded not guilty. The matter will resume on Wednesday, where the defence for the five accused will be giving their heads of arguments.