Accused Nelson Sello Makwele (45) appeared before the Harrismith Magistrates Court on 21 November 2024 where he was convicted and sentenced for defeating the administration of justice.
His conviction originates from an incident that took place between 2020 and 2021, when Makwele was representing two accused in the Phuthaditjhaba Magistrates Court. During the course of the trial, the case was transferred to the High Court where the prosecutor became suspicious of Makwele’s credentials. An enquiry was then made to establish whether or not Makwele was certified and admitted to appear in a High Court. It was discovered that Makwele did not have the necessary certificate. The matter was reported to the Hawks for further investigation culminating in his conviction.
The court sentenced Makwele to a fine of R4 000 or nine months imprisonment wholly suspended for three years on condition that he is not convicted of the same offense during the period of suspension.
