FIVE members of the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) who are accused of the 2012 murder of three Mafeteng men have turned down an offer of a new legal representative, after their own lawyers jilted them last week.

Captain Litekanyo Nyakane along with Lance Corporals Khauhelo Makoae and Sebili Sebilo as well as Privates Tšepo Tlakeli and Thebe Tšephe said they were not comfortable with being represented by Advocate Vuyani Mone who was appointed by the registrar of the High Court to replace their lawyers.

The entire defense team officially withdrew from the case last week, arguing that their clients were being ill-treated in prison where they are awaiting trial, adding they therefore did not want to be part of that abuse.

The accused face the murder of Thabang Mosole, Monyake Matsie and Phakiso Ntala Letatabe in Ha Motanyane, Mafeteng on April 7, 2012.

On Friday, Advocate Mone informed Justice Onkemetse Tshosa that although he was ready to begin the trial, the soldiers told him during a pre-trial conference that they still have their own lawyers and they are not comfortable with him.

He said for a fair trial, the accused should be represented by a lawyer they have faith in.

But Adv Mosoeunyane Masiphole for the Crown said with that kind of attitude, the accused should find their own lawyers so that the trial can start as soon as possible.