Controversial sangoma and businesswoman Gogo Maweni, whose real name is Makhotso Mofokeng, appeared in the Protea Magistrates Court on Tuesday, February 11. Maweni, 38, looked calm and composed, wearing black-and-white trousers and a matching top, and smiled as she entered the courtroom despite the serious nature of the charges she faces. This court appearance follows her being granted R5,000 bail, and the case was quickly postponed to March 12 for trial.
Maweni is facing charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm stemming from an incident in 2019. The case has drawn significant attention, partly due to her high public profile as a controversial figure. During earlier proceedings, it was revealed that Maweni had failed to disclose several prior serious criminal charges, including a fraud conviction and a charge of drunk and negligent driving.
This omission of critical information led to additional charges being laid against Maweni for providing false evidence to the court. As her legal troubles mount, Magistrate Rozelle Khiye noted that the case would proceed to trial, with the defendant’s actions complicating matters further. Maweni’s bail conditions include a restriction on intimidating the complainant and the requirement to surrender her passport.
In a display of support, a number of sangomas were present in the courtroom, standing by Maweni as a symbol of solidarity. Despite the ongoing legal challenges, Maweni maintained a confident demeanor throughout the hearing, even smiling as the trial was postponed.
