Kimberley - The Speaker of the Northern Cape provincial legislature, Kenny Mmoiemang, who is facing charges of assault, attempted to prevent the media from covering his court appearances when he appeared in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court on Thursday.
Criminal charges were laid after Mmoiemang contravened an interim protection order obtained by his customary law wife, when he allegedly kicked her in her private parts at their home in June.
The interim protection order stipulated that he was prohibited from swearing, touching, intimidating or evicting her from their official residence.
There is also a pending matter before the Family Court where both parties are in the process of negotiating an out-of-court settlement, as they intend parting ways.
Before his court appearance on Thursday, Mmoiemang, in the presence of his personal protectors, waved his index finger at reporters, ordering them not to publish his “private matter” or take any photographs of him.
“This is of no interest to the public,” he warned.
He accused the DFA of having a personal vendetta against him and of ruining his reputation.
The State requested that the matter be postponed for further investigation and in order to obtain additional statements.
Legal representative for the accused, Riaan Bode, pointed out to the court that as it was a domestic and private dispute, his client wished to hold all court proceedings in camera.
“No media should be allowed to cover any postponements or the trial.”
Magistrate André Williams advised that the assault case was now a criminal matter that no longer fell under the ambit of the Domestic Court enquiry.
“A criminal offence was (allegedly) committed when the accused contravened the interim protection order. The media and members of the public cannot be barred from attending an open criminal court, unless there are exceptional circumstances. The application to hold the matter in camera can be brought before court when it goes on trial.”
He postponed the case until September 22 and extended the accused’s bail.
Mmoiemang has had to find alternative accommodation from his official residence until the Family Court matter has been finalised.
Diamond Fields Advertiser