The Fishrot corruption trial, set to commence today before High Court Judge Moses Chinhengo, has been postponed to Thursday, 6 February, due to the judge's unavailability.

At the end of last year, Justice Chinhengo ruled that 4 February would be the date for the state and defence to finalise trial dates. No alternative dates were discussed at the time.

The accused in the case include former Justice Minister Sakeus Shanghala, former Investec Asset Management Managing Director James Hatuikulipi, former Fisheries Minister Bernhardt Esau, as well as Pius Mwatelulo, Ricardo Gustavo, Tamson Hatuikulipi, former Fishcor CEO Mike Nghipunya, Otneel Shuudifonya, and Phillipus Mwapopi. 

They collectively face 42 charges related to corruption, fraud, and money laundering. Nigel van Wyk faces lesser charges in the case.