Being pregnant with twins after unprotected tlof tlof helps Gogo Maweni get bail, as per Gogo Skhotheni's prediction (VIDEO)

Johannesburg – Traditional healer Makhotso Lee-Anne Mofokeng, better known as Gogo Maweni, secured R5,000 bail on Monday at the Protea Magistrate’s Court following her arrest last week on assault and murder-related charges.

Her appearance was marked by a significant show of support from fellow traditional healers, who gathered outside the court dressed in black and red traditional attire, demonstrating solidarity with the well-known sangoma.

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The charges against Gogo Maweni stem from a 2019 alleged assault incident in Moroka, Soweto, where she is accused of striking a woman with a bottle. However, the case also involves a connection to five separate murder investigations spanning 2020-2024 in various areas around Johannesburg, including Eldorado Park, Mondeor, Moroka, Orange Farm (two cases), and Bekkersdal. These investigations were initiated following allegations made by Gogo Skhotheni, a former friend and fellow traditional healer.

Gogo Skhotheni, while not issuing a formal statement, has shared her perspective on social media. In comments shared with Precious, another former friend of Gogo Maweni, she expressed a degree of surprise at the gravity of the situation, hinting at a complexity beyond the initial headlines.

"She might walk free," Gogo Skhotheni stated. "I believe she will come out and be free. But the truth will come out one day." She added, "I feel sorry for her. We did not start this; she is the one who did, but she and I made peace."

Precious, also commenting on the situation, acknowledged the multifaceted nature of Gogo Maweni's character and the impact of the charges on her family. "Despite everything that has happened and my husband's case, I also know her good side," she shared. "Everyone makes mistakes. What is happening is painful for her and her family; she's a mother." These comments highlight the complex relationships and the personal tragedies that underpin the legal proceedings.

Gogo Maweni’s first court appearance on Monday, 20 January, saw her lawyer, initially Marcia Makuse, attempt to restrict media coverage to protect her children and her alleged pregnancy. The court then remanded her into custody for seven days pending a bail application, scheduled for Monday, 27 January. This application proved successful, with Gogo Maweni's new lawyer, Riaan Gissing, presenting a compelling case for her release.

Celebrations after #GogoMaweni was granted bail of R 5000 at Protea Magistrate court in Soweto. #TheCitizenNews

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— The Citizen News (@TheCitizen_News) January 27, 2025

In her bail application, Gogo Maweni revealed she is pregnant with twins, a factor her lawyer highlighted as a key reason for granting bail. Mr Gissing also argued that Gogo Maweni is not a flight risk, citing her lack of attempts to leave the country in the past five years.

He further emphasized the hardship her incarceration would place on her family, particularly her children, who he stated were traumatized by the situation. He also mentioned that her pregnancy has been difficult, with limited access to proper prenatal care while in custody.

The court, however, learned that Gogo Maweni has previous convictions for theft and fraud. Despite this, the magistrate ultimately granted bail, considering the totality of the circumstances presented by the defence. The matter has been postponed to February 11, 2025, allowing for further investigation and proceedings.