Magistrate Veruka Njembo has postponed his decision on limited access to communication for the five accused in the murder trial of the late control prosecutor, Justine Shiweda.

The five accused are currently incarcerated at the Grootfontein Correctional Facility.

This morning, legal representatives and some of the accused informed the court that they are limited to speaking only to their legal representatives on rare occasions and to one-hour discussions, which hinders their chances of a fair trial.

The state indicated that it opposes unlimited access to communication channels, stating that it has allegedly led to the planning of the crime against the late prosecutor.

Accused No. 1, Lukas Nekwiyu (well-known as Mane), says he does not face the same limitations as the others, as he is incarcerated at the Oluno Correctional Facility.

Accused No. 2, Abner Mateus (well-known as Cota Smith) and alleged mastermind of the crime, informed the court that he is in isolation and has no communication with his family or co-accused, which is hindering his preparations for the impending trial.

Magistrate Verukua is also set to rule on the bail applications of Accused No. 3, Petrus Uusiku; Accused No. 4, Nghilifavali Johannes (well-known as Josi); and Accused No. 5, Petrus Shikwaya (well-known as Kuxa).

The bail application of Accused No. 6, Dr. Fillemon Nakanduungile (well-known as Fly), was denied.

In the meantime, the court has closed this afternoon to allow the late Shiweda's colleagues to attend counselling sessions scheduled for the remainder of the week

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Ndapanda Shuuya