By Thabo Mosia
Pastor Paseka ‘Mboro’ Motsoeneng, leader of the Incredible Happenings Church, was granted bail of R3,000 on Thursday, 12 September 2024, after a lengthy legal battle that captured national attention. His bodyguard, Vincent Baloyi, was released on a warning. Both are set to return to court on 21 October 2024, where they face serious charges related to an incident at Matsediso Primary School in Katlehong.
Court Delays and Legal Representation Concerns:
Mboro’s legal team has voiced strong concerns regarding the numerous delays that have characterized the case. The pastor’s lawyer, Advocate MoAfrika wa Maila, criticized the court’s handling of the proceedings, stating that Mboro’s rights were being compromised. He lamented that his client was incurring significant legal fees, with costs reportedly amounting to R110,000 daily. The legal team was especially frustrated by the repeated postponements, including a delay in early September when the state sought to have the presiding magistrate recused due to perceived bias.
The legal delays have been a point of contention for both Mboro’s legal team and his supporters. They have argued that the postponements are prolonging the case unnecessarily and creating an unfair burden on the pastor. Mboro, who was previously denied bail in August, applied for bail again based on “new facts” presented by his defense, which led to the successful outcome in September .
Bail Conditions and Accusations:
Pastor Mboro’s bail comes with strict conditions. He is prohibited from contacting witnesses, either directly or through third parties, and cannot be seen near Matsediso Primary School, where his grandchildren attend. The charges against Mboro, his bodyguard, and his son stem from a highly publicized incident that took place at the school in Katlehong in August. The pastor and his associates are accused of kidnapping two minors during a custody dispute. The incident, captured on video and shared widely on social media, shows Mboro and his companions brandishing pangas as they forcibly took the children .
The state has charged the trio with 12 counts, including kidnapping, assault, and possession of an unlicensed firearm. Mboro’s legal team argued that some of these charges, particularly those related to firearms, were unfounded. The defense presented ballistic evidence that reportedly weakened the state’s case on this front, which contributed to the court’s decision to grant bail .
Supporters and Public Reaction:
The courtroom erupted in jubilation when the bail decision was announced, with supporters chanting “Mboro!” as the pastor was escorted out. Many of his followers had been vocal throughout the proceedings, expressing confidence in his innocence and accusing the authorities of targeting him due to his popularity. Mboro himself has been vocal about what he perceives as persecution, stating that he is being unfairly treated because of his fame and public stature .
On social media, reactions have been mixed. While his loyal followers have celebrated his release, others have questioned the fairness of the legal process and the serious nature of the charges he faces. Comments on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) have ranged from expressions of support to calls for justice, with some users arguing that Mboro’s actions should be met with accountability .
Defense Team’s Standpoint:
Mboro’s legal team remains determined to clear his name. They have repeatedly emphasized that the pastor has dedicated his life to community service and social upliftment, a point they used to argue for lenient bail conditions. They expressed satisfaction with the court’s ruling, although they continue to criticize the slow pace of the proceedings. The next court date, set for 21 October, is expected to see further developments in what has become a highly charged and closely followed case .
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