Mathipandile Sotheni is expected to appear in the Brakpan Magistrate’s Court on Monday to formally place a new attorney on record.
Sotheni is accused of the murder of Marius Van Der Merwe, also referred to in court proceedings as Witness D. He faces multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit murder, attempted murder, and the illegal possession of ammunition.
In previous court appearances, Sotheni rejected his court-appointed lawyer, Eric Bryer, claiming he did not know him. The matter was subsequently postponed to allow for the appointment of new legal representation.
However, court documents indicate that Sotheni had consulted Bryer on 18 March. The records, which include his name, signature, employer, and work address, suggest he had formally engaged the attorney.
Sotheni also signed an affidavit in support of a bail application, granting Bryer the mandate to represent him in the matter.
The case is expected to proceed once legal representation has been finalised.