Gogo Maweni Secures R5K Bail
Makhotso Lee-Anne Mofokeng, widely known as Gogo Maweni, experienced a moment of relief and celebration on Monday when she was granted R5,000 bail at the Protea Magistrate’s Court in Soweto. The case, dating back to 2019, involves allegations of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Outside the courtroom, traditional healers, friends, and family gathered in high spirits, expressing their support and joy at the ruling.
ALSO READ: ‘Pregnant’ Gogo Maweni Awaits Trial Amid Assault Charges from 2019 Incident
Background of the Case
The incident leading to Maweni’s arrest allegedly occurred in 2019 when she is accused of striking a woman in the face with a bottle in Moroka, Soweto. After years without resolution, the Gauteng cold case unit and counter-intelligence investigators arrested Maweni in a coordinated operation about a week ago.
Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Maweni appeared calm during Monday’s court proceedings, wearing a casual white T-shirt and exuding confidence. Her legal representative, Marcia Makuse, emphasized that Maweni had not been hiding from the authorities and had only learned of the charges when contacted by the police the previous Sunday.
Gogo Maweni’s Growing Popularity
Gogo Maweni rose to fame through her appearance on the reality TV show Izangoma Zodumo, which provides a behind-the-scenes look at the lives of South African traditional healers. Her charisma and unapologetic approach to her practice have earned her a loyal following, but her rise to prominence has not been without controversy.
Her personal life has frequently made headlines, particularly allegations of using witchcraft against former partners and her public feud with fellow sangoma and reality star Gogo Skhotheni. The latter dispute, which played out on social media, involved heated exchanges and mutual accusations. However, the two healers reconciled in early 2025, issuing public apologies and calling for unity within the traditional healing community.
A Pregnant Pause in Legal Proceedings
Before the court proceedings began, it was revealed that Maweni is pregnant with twins and in her first trimester. Her lawyer expressed concerns about the potential impact of the legal battle on her health and family life. Maweni is already a mother to four children, aged 12, 8, 7, and 6, whose lives could be disrupted by the case.
Makuse also highlighted the broader implications for Maweni’s career and livelihood. As a popular traditional healer and public figure, the negative attention surrounding her arrest could harm her reputation and business, jeopardizing her ability to provide for her children.
Media Access to Court Proceedings
The case garnered additional attention due to the media’s involvement. Similar to other high-profile cases, the court granted permission for proceedings to be recorded and broadcast. Maweni’s lawyer argued against this decision, citing concerns over her right to a fair trial and the potential fallout from media coverage.
However, the prosecution maintained that the public nature of the case warranted transparency. Magistrate Rozelle Khaye ultimately ruled in favor of allowing media coverage, stating that the charges were not speculative, as Maweni was formally arrested and brought before the court.
Postponement and the Road Ahead
The court postponed the case to February 11, 2025, providing time for both parties to prepare for the next phase of the trial. While the legal battle is far from over, Maweni’s supporters remain optimistic about her chances.
Outside the courtroom, a celebratory atmosphere prevailed as her family and friends expressed their unwavering belief in her innocence. Many also noted the strength Maweni has shown in the face of adversity, from navigating her personal controversies to dealing with the pressures of fame and now, this legal challenge.
The Complex Persona of Gogo Maweni
Gogo Maweni embodies a mix of resilience and controversy. She is a businesswoman, a healer, and a mother, navigating the complexities of her public and private lives. Her story resonates with many who see her as a symbol of strength and authenticity.
As the case continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how these legal proceedings will impact her career and personal life. For now, Gogo Maweni’s ability to remain calm under pressure and the outpouring of support from her community suggest she is prepared to face whatever comes next.
The journey ahead for Gogo Maweni will undoubtedly be challenging, but the scenes outside the Protea Magistrate’s Court on Monday reflected a broader story of support, resilience, and hope. With her legal team ready to defend her and her loved ones standing by her side, Maweni is determined to prove her innocence and continue her work as one of South Africa’s most prominent traditional healers.
