Triple murder suspect Ndodana Tshuma has reportedly been struggling to eat and sleep, prompting his lawyer to request a specialist medical assessment during his appearance at the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court.
According to reports from the court proceedings on Wednesday, 21 October, Tshuma’s lawyer, Chrispin Machingura, raised concerns about his client’s condition as the defence and state attempted to resolve outstanding issues surrounding a plea and sentencing agreement.
The proceedings took a turn when Tshuma reportedly told the court that he could not remember pleading guilty or signing the document presented to him.
The case was postponed to 29 October to allow further consultations between Tshuma and his legal representative, SABC News reported.
lawyer requests sApecialist assessment
Machingura reportedly told the court that his client had not been eating and sleeping well. He requested that Tshuma be examined by a specialist for a medical assessment.
The request came as the defence sought to clarify Tshuma’s position on the plea agreement, which had been expected to be finalised during Wednesday’s proceedings.
According to the reports, Tshuma maintained that he was innocent and said he could not remember pleading guilty. When his lawyer showed him the document he had signed, he reportedly said he could not recall signing it.
The development raised further questions about whether the outstanding plea and sentencing arrangements could proceed as planned.
The court granted a postponement to allow the defence more time to consult with Tshuma.
His reported difficulties sleeping and eating should not, however, be taken as a medical diagnosis, and the request for an assessment does not establish that he has a particular condition.
Why Tshuma is appearing in court
Tshuma, a British national of Zimbabwean descent, is wanted in the United Kingdom in connection with the alleged murders of his wife, Zandile, and their two daughters, Natalie and Nala.
He was arrested in Johannesburg in July following an international manhunt.
South African proceedings include charges relating to unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as contraventions of the Immigration Act.
Tshuma had previously pleaded guilty to firearm-related and immigration offences in South Africa, with the state and defence working towards a plea and sentencing agreement.
However, outstanding documentation and discrepancies delayed the finalisation of the agreement.
His South African criminal proceedings are separate from the extradition process through which British authorities are seeking his return to face the murder allegations.
The next court appearance on 29 October is expected to allow further consultations between Tshuma and his lawyer as the local proceedings continue.