Gogo Maweni gained her freedom after R5,000 bail was granted.
The Protea Magistrate’s Court was filled with celebration as renowned sangoma Makgotso Mofokeng, better known as Gogo Maweni, was granted bail of R5,000 after spending a week in custody.
Maweni, arrested on 19 January, faces charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm stemming from an alleged 2019 incident.
Magistrate Rozelle Khiye explained her decision, emphasizing the absence of evidence suggesting Maweni posed a danger to the public or the complainant.
The court acknowledged that Maweni, who has lived in Mondeor for 27 years, voluntarily handed herself over to the police, showing no intent to evade trial.
The court also noted Maweni’s prior convictions, which include assault, fraud, and theft.
While her non-disclosure of these during the bail application led to an additional charge, her defense argued it was due to confusion about the charges she faced.
Bail conditions include avoiding contact with the complainant, notifying authorities when traveling for work, and reporting address changes.
The case was postponed to 11 February for further disclosures.