By: Keneiloe Huma

The Magistrate presiding over Pastor Paseka Mboro Motsoeneng’s bail application has dismissed an application for her recusal from the case.
Magistrate Katlego Mokoena says the application by the state lacked merit and further explained that procedures were not followed which stipulate that she needs to be consulted prior.
The National Prosecuting Authority alleged Mokoena was biased after privately advising the defence on its affidavit.
Magistrate Katlego Mokoena said while the State’s application was procedurally flawed, it was also based on hearsay.
She said issues presented by the state in their application do not prove that she is biased and would prejudice the case.
Mokoena will continue to proceed over the bail application brought by Mboro and his bodyguards.
Lawyers representing Pastor Mboro have slammed the State for bringing forward a poorly constructed recusal application.
Lawyer MoAfrika wa Maila says the state had no valid reasons behind the recusal application.
MoAfrika has welcomed the ruling by Magistrate Katlego Mokoena who refused to recuse herself.
Pastor Mboro’s lawyers opposed the recusal application citing that the Magistrate was not showing any signs of bias.
MoAfrika wa Maila accused the State of using delaying tactics because they are not ready to proceed.
The defence is now arguing new facts for a second bail application bid.
Mboro and his co-accused were arrested in June after forcibly removing his grandchildren from a Primary school in Katlehong.
The controversial pastor’s church was set alight after he and two other men yielded pangas and a rifle at Matsediso Primary School in Katlehong on Monday, 05 August.
Shocking videos of the three men violently threatening the livelihoods of teachers and learners at the school, before the Pastor grabbed two learners, believed to be his grandchildren and left the school premises.
Also read: 3 children amongst 7 killed execution-style in KZN Highflats



