Asbestos roof removal case likely to take longer than expected

The trial within a trial in the R255 million Asbestos roof removal case is likely to take longer as more accused want to join it. Moroadi Cholota who is the former Personal Assistant of Ace Magashule is challenging her extradition from the US. Two legal representatives have shown an interest in cross-examining the witnesses called to testify on a trial within a trial.

The first state witness who has been investigating the matter from the inception has told the court that Cholota was considered a suspect after two unsuccessful meetings with her in September 2021. The court has heard that Cholota refused to answer or answered other questions indirectly that were in relation to emails she had authored.

According to the state witness she failed to clarify many issues, including who gave certain instructions in the contract and was informed that she will be considered as a suspect. The state witness presenting the state’s evidence in chief has denied claims that Cholota was threatened or intimidated during these meetings.

“We have never forced or intimidated Cholota. We accommodated her and informed her about her rights.”

It has been revealed during cross-examination that Cholota only learnt about her being a state witness from the media. The defence has revealed through email communications between the state and Cholota which shows that Cholota never agreed to be a state witness.

The communication has also revealed that Cholota was requested to testify about information she had already testified to during the State Capture Commission.

“What is the meaning of pushing? Do you push on all the witnesses that you interview? It’s important to establish this factor because we are dealing with cooperation,” says Lerato Marapela, who is representing Cholota.

Former Free State Premier Ace Magashule, through his lawyer Lourence Hodes, has asked the court to cross-examine witnesses in a trial-within-a-trial.

“My lord, we will also like to cross-examine the witness as my client is mentioned, to avoid calling for another trial-within-a-trial,” says Hodes.

The state has maintained that this court cannot review the extradition order or judgment of the United States of America. The defense will continue cross-examining the state witness on Tuesday.