SHONGWE READY FOR TRIAL, WANTS TO CLEAR HIS NAME

 MBABANE - “I want to stand trial and clear my name.” This was one of the averments made by murder suspect Sipho Shongwe.

Shongwe, who stands charged with the murder of prominent businessman Victor Gamedze, said there was no reason for him to flee as there was no evidence linking him to the crime.

He made these averments in his answering papers.
The Crown is, however, adamant that in the event he was released on bail, he would flee.
“I respectfully submit that the prosecution’s case against me is not strong,” argued Shongwe.

Shongwe further denied that he conspired with other persons, who were known to him, to commit the offence.
He asked the court to consider that he had a fixed address, family and business ties in Swaziland, had assets valued at E14 million, had a good defence to the charge as he was not present at the scene of the crime.

The accused further implored the court to consider that he had a medical condition which could not be properly treated while incarcerated.
He contended that the general conditions in custody infringed his right to consult properly with his legal representative.

According to the principal investigator of the case, Sikhumbuzo Fakudze, there was overwhelming evidence against Shongwe.
“I state that as much as the applicant will plead not guilty to the charge, which is his right, there is overwhelming evidence that he committed the crime of murder he is charged with,” alleged Fakudze.

He contended that there was a likelihood that Shongwe would be found guilty as charged.
Fakudze went on to state that there was evidence linking Shongwe to the commission of the crime and this included among others, statements recorded from various witnesses.

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