SENIOR Counsel Shaun Abrahams who is spearheading the prosecution team in the matter against the nine soldiers accused of the murder of former army commander Lieutenant General Maaparankoe Mahao will continue leading the crew when the trial continues next week Wednesday.
news
July 23, 2021
STAFF REPORTER
2 min read
Soldiers attempt to kick out prosecutors fails
SC Shaun Abrahams leads the Crown in the trial
This, after the accused’s application for the outfit’s recusal was shot down by the High Court on Thursday.
Advocate ’Naki Nku assists SC Abrahams in the case.
The accused include former Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) chief Lt Gen Tlali Kamoli along with Litekanyo Nyakane, Haleo Makara, Lekhooa Moepi, Motsamai Fako, Marasi 'Moleli, Motšoane Machai, Mohlalefi Seitlheko and Tšitso Ramoholi
They also wanted the court to give an order declaring that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Adv Hlalefang Motinyane is not qualified to appoint prosecutors in the trial, adding that only the Attorney General has the authority to do so.
The application was prompted by the evidence of retired Colonel Thato Phaila who accused Abrahams of attempting to blackmail him into giving false information in exchange for the release of his retirement package.
Phaila claimed that the blackmailing occurred in the presence of among others, the DPP.
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He denied knowledge of an operation’s order bearing his signature, saying although the endorsement looked like his, it was actually falsified.
The accused face multiple charges including attempted murder, theft, obstruction of justice, damage to property, aggravated assault and risk of injury or death.
Most of these crimes allegedly occurred in Ha Lekete or Ha Ratjomose in Maseru on June 25, 2015 the day Mahao was killed execution style by his subordinates.
The case continues before Justice Charles Hungwe. LeNA
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