Court expected to give judgment in rape-accused pastor Stephen Zondo’s recusal application

Court expected to give judgment in rape-accused pastor Stephen Zondo’s recusal application! The Pretoria High Court is expected to hand down judgment in the recusal application by rape-accused bishop Stephen Zondo on Wednesday.

Zondo is accused of the rape and sexual assault of some of his congregants and the staff at his church, with one of the incidents involving a eight-year-old girl, dating back to 1980.

The State has closed its case, and it’s now Zondo’s turn to make his. But he wants to do so before a different judge.

Stephen Zondo

Zondo’s recusal application emanates from Judge Papi Mosopa’s ruling on the bishop’s section 174 discharge application.

In his judgment, Mosopa said at that stage of the trial he found the evidence to be credible, truthful and reliable.

Zondo’s lawyer, advocate Piet Pistorius, has argued that Mosopa went too far when he made these pronouncements.

“And in so doing, you overreached in so demonstrating impartiality, that is the difficulty.”

If Zondo is granted his wish, the trial, which first kicked off in 2021 may have to start afresh before a new judge.

But if not, Zondo will have to open his case and call his first witness.

In other news – Lamiez Holworthy on balancing music career and motherhood

South African DJ Lamiez Holworthy continues to show the world that women can have it all, with a little help from love, support, and determination. In a recent social media post, Lamiez shared a touching behind-the-scenes moment from her work life.

The video featured her carrying her baby boy, Leano, on her back — a sight many working moms across the world can relate to — as she geared up for yet another gig. With a bright smile and maternal warmth, she captioned the clip: “Superstar sometimes. SUPERMOM – ALWAYS.” Read More