MASERU- Former Minister in the Prime Minister’s office in the past governance, Temeki Tšolo appeared before judge Tšeliso Mokoko after warrant of arrest was issued on him. The court said on the 24th September this year, Advocate Shakhane appeared before court to give dates on which Tšolo as the first accused in the Fraser solar case was given the subpoena to inform Tšolo about his appearance in court. Judge Mokoko indicated to Tšolo that a warrant of arrest was issued after the crown asked for it because the court’s police officer was directed to out his name three times and he was not present.
“At this juncture you are under arrest and the court will only deal with this issues once the crown lawyer is present,” said Judge Mokoko. While still discussing the matter, adv. Shakhane arrived and the warrant of arrest was cancelled. Given the opportunity to explain this delay to arrive in court, Tšolo pointed out that he had to see a doctor and he had informed one, Mokhoema who works in court.
“The court has no issue with you attending other businesses but what you had to do was to inform the court registrar that you will not be able to appear in court on the dates set for you,” said Judge Mokoko. He added that Tšolo was supposed to appear with his lawyer to confirm and clarify that by the 21st to 25th October this year, the case will proceed without any complication.
Tšolo indicated that till now he still has no lawyer to represent him in this matter. “Things are still hectic from my side till now, I have tried by all means to find a lawyer but still have none,” said Tšolo. When asked if he had approached the office of the registrar for pro-duo services, he said even though it was not through writing but he did and the registrar informed him that only people involved in murder cases are given pro-duo.
“Did you try the Chief Legal Aid Counsel?” asked judge Mokoko. Tšolo replied that he had called the office several times but never received a clear answer. In conclusion, Judge Mokoko said, “The court advises you to approach the Chief Legal Aid Counsel, not call but walk there and explain to them your predicament. You are expected to report to this court on the 17th October this year about this matter, so the court knows if you found help or not.”
