Lekompo musician Shebeshxt will have to wait until May 2027 for his trial after the Polokwane Regional Court postponed his case following pre-trial proceedings.
The matter was postponed to 17 May 2027, when the trial is expected to begin. The latest development gives both the State and Shebeshxt’s newly appointed legal team additional time to prepare for what is expected to be a lengthy court battle.
According to information presented during the proceedings, the State intends to proceed with 22 charges against the musician. The charges include four counts of attempted murder, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, robbery, possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, culpable homicide and reckless driving, among other allegations.
The extent of the prosecution’s case also became clearer during the proceedings. The State indicated that it intends calling 22 witnesses when the matter eventually goes to trial.
The witnesses are reportedly expected to include alleged victims as well as a ballistic expert. Their evidence could form an important part of the prosecution’s attempt to prove the charges against Shebeshxt.
At the same time, his new legal team is preparing to challenge aspects of the proceedings. His lawyers indicated that they intend bringing an application for Magistrate Godfrey Netshiozwi to recuse himself from the matter.
The defence reportedly believes that the magistrate is biased against their client. However, this remains an allegation by the defence and has not been determined by the court. The magistrate remains involved in the matter unless and until a recusal application is successfully argued.
The postponement means Shebeshxt’s legal team now has several months to examine the State’s case in detail. His lawyers are expected to study the evidence supporting each charge, consider the statements of the witnesses and prepare their strategy for challenging the prosecution’s version of events.
The lengthy wait for the trial also raises questions about Shebeshxt’s prospects of securing bail before May 2027. Whether the defence will pursue another bail application remains a matter for his legal representatives and the court.
Shebeshxt has remained in custody while the criminal proceedings continue. His case has attracted significant attention from fans of his music, particularly within the Lekompo and Bolo House communities.
For now, the charges against the musician remain allegations. Shebeshxt has the right to defend himself against the accusations and is presumed innocent unless the State proves the charges beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
The next developments are expected to focus on the proposed recusal application, further preparation by both legal teams and any possible application for bail before the trial date.
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