Cape Town -
Sentencing proceedings of a Western Cape bus driver convicted of culpable homicide after a crash that left 23 people dead were postponed by the Cape Town Regional Court on Thursday.
Siza Nonama, 41, was told to return to court on January 30 for sentencing.
The court, presided by Western Cape Regional Court President Bruce Langa, heard that the delay was due to a communication problem between Nonama and his attorney.
Defence attorney Thabo Nogemane said Nonama had recently been treated for tuberculosis in hospital and was unable to “properly communicate instructions”.
The defence needed time to consult with him properly.
In October, Nonama was found guilty of 23 culpable homicide counts, as well as driving without a proper licence, and driving an unroadworthy bus.
Similar charges against Nonama's brother, Malinga, who is the owner of the bus, were recently withdrawn by prosecuting counsel Willem Tarantal.
The accident took place near De Doorns in May 2010 when Nonama lost control of the bus and it overturned. - Sapa