Murder accused Alberto Matthews, who is standing trial for allegedly shooting his ex-wife, Mandy Bailey, in front of his nine-year-old stepdaughter, will remain in custody until his next court appearance in March 2025.
MURDER accused Alberto Matthews, who is standing trial for allegedly shooting his ex-wife, Mandy Bailey, in front of his nine-year-old stepdaughter, will remain in custody until his next court appearance in March 2025.
The trial was postponed in the Northern Cape High Court this week.
The incident occurred on December 27, 2023, when Matthews allegedly violated a protection order and entered Bailey’s bedroom, where he shot and killed her.
National Prosecuting Authority regional spokesperson Mojalefa Senokoatsane stated that the case had to be postponed a couple of times since being transferred to the Northern Cape High Court.
“The matter was expected to start from October 7-11. The accused, through his legal representative, requested an adjournment on October 7 as he was sick, and the trial could not proceed,” said Senokoatsane.
“On October 9, advocate Celeste Nameka withdrew her services as the attorney on record as she was unable to take proper instructions from the accused.”
Matthews had indicated that he needed time for his family to raise the necessary funds to appoint a new lawyer.
State advocate Leshnee Pillay told the court that the State was ready to proceed.
She emphasised that while the accused had a right to legal representation, the victim’s family members also had a right to a speedy trial.
Pillay pointed out that it was very traumatic and emotional for the witnesses and Bailey’s family.
Heinrich Steynberg, from Legal Aid South Africa, was appointed as Matthews’ new legal representative on November 5.
Judge Almé Stanton postponed the trial until March 24 and advised Matthews to co-operate with his new legal representative.
