Chief Magistrate Mr. Molefi Makara will take over the Phakiso Molise trial from initial presiding officer Mr. Lesala Nthabi in the case, which has been set for hearing in January 2005. 

Director of Public Prosecutions Mr. Leaba Thetsane announced on November 21 that it has been agreed that the Chief Magistrate would preside over the case.

This was also confirmed by Advocate Thulo Hoeane who represents Molise's co-accused Thabiso Mothobi.

The case has been postponed on several occasions pending a decision on whether initial presiding officer Mr. Nthabi would proceed with the case or not.

Former Second Lieutenant Molise is charged with escaping from lawful custody in August 2003 when he was taken for medical treatment at Queen II hospital, while Mothobi is accused of assisting him to escape.

Molise is represented by Advocate Zwelakhe Mda.

21 November 2005