Usindiso building fire trial: Accused questioned why his story keeps changing

The prosecution in the trial against the man accused of setting fire to the Usindiso building in Johannesburg’s CBD has questioned why he continues to change his story.

Alleged arsonist Sthembiso Mdlalose once again altered his testimony on Wednesday during proceedings at the Palm Ridge Magistrates Court.

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• Alleged Usindiso building arsonist Mdlalose says he was waiting for 'right time' to retract confession

He now claims he was not anywhere near the Usindiso building when the fire broke out two years ago, despite previously confessing to starting the blaze.

The deadlyinferno engulfed the five-storey hijacked building in August 2023, claiming 76 lives.

Just last week, Mdlalose told the court that he was inside the Usindiso building when the fire broke out but insisted that he didn’t start the blaze.

On Wednesday, Mdlalose, however, gave a different account, claiming he was sleeping under a bridge when the building caught fire.

Prosecutor Thami Mpekane asked Mdlalose if he realises that by constantly changing his version of events, he is affecting his own case.

“Remember, the reason why you are testifying is that you must try and convince the court to take your version as the truth.”

Mdlalose said he is embarrassed for getting himself arrested for a crime he insists he did not commit.

When asked why he chose to change his story now, he explained that he wanted to first build a close relationship with his lawyer before revising his version of events.

“I wanted the right timing. I couldn’t just explain it to him. I needed to build a relationship with him before I could tell him anything. Remember, on its own, this story of me getting myself arrested is embarrassing on its own.”

Mdlalose stormed out of the courtroom when the prosecutor questioned him about his contradictory statements.

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