One of the accused in Sindiso Magaqa murder opts for a new lawyer

PIETERMARITZBURG - Accused number four in the murder trial of Sindiso Magaqa, Sibusiso Ncwenga, has abandoned the services of Advocate Shane Matthews as his lawyer.  

He told the court that he would be appointing a new lawyer but didn’t cite any reasons for his decision.

Matthews is still representing accused number one, Sibonelo Myeza and accused number three, Mlungisi Ncalane.  

Tuesday’s proceedings were brief, with the State hearing from Ncwenga that he planned to appoint a new lawyer.

When asked by the judge as to who the new lawyer is, Ncwenga said it would be someone from Shoba Attorneys.

The State said that the new lawyer would have to be briefed on the case and the evidence presented to date, which may result in yet another delay in the high-profile trial.

The matter returns to court in February when the State plans to call a new witness.