FORMER Ukhozi FM presenter Siyabonga "Siya" Mhlongo beefs up his legal team.
Siya, who was recently fired by Ukhozi FM, has roped in advocate Simphiwe Mlotshwa, the legal representative for the AKA and Tibz murder accused, to represent him in court.
The 42-year-old radio presenter is facing charges of assault and stabbing his alleged boyfriend Njabulo Duma (30).
The incident took place on the night of 31 August 2024 and a case of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm was opened against him.
Following incident, Ukhozi FM muted him on air and didn't renew his contract for the new season that began on 1 April.
Siya has made several appearances in Durban Magistrates Court represented by his attorney, Sikhumbuzo Mathabela.
On Wednesday, 30 April, Siya and Mathabela introduced advocate Mlotshwa, who is also former KZN Director of Public Prosecutions, as his counsel on the matter.
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Advocate Mlotshwa, who also represents two of the five accused in the AKA and Tibz murder case, applied for the postponement of the case to familiarize himself with the details.
Mlothswa indicated that he was telephonically briefed on Sunday, 27 April and formally briefed on Tuesday, 29 April that he was going to be roped into the case.
On Wednesday, 30 April, Siya arrived in court wearing a navy suit and black shoes, looking confident as he has pleaded not guilty in the case.
The state prosecutor Shenaaz Hoosen opposed the application, saying the defence had enough time to rope in the counsel.
Shenaaz indicated that the complainant is based in Joburg, and he was in Durban only for the case.
Although Magistrate Mhlonipheni Sibiya granted the postponement, he indicated that roping in the counsel and seeking the adjournment was inappropriate.
The magistrate indicated that the accused has a right to be represented by the legal practitioner of his choice.
The trial started on Friday, 25 April, where the complainant took the witness stand, and it was postponed to Wednesday, 30 April, where the defense was expected to cross-examine the complainant.
The case trial was postponed to 10 and 11 July, with a condition that on 28 May the defence will meet the magistrate to show their readiness while they will also pay the travel cost of the complainant.
