JOHANNESBURG - Former Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula's case was cut short following concerns over what her lawyers described as visible 'tiredness'.
She was testifying in her defence against corruption and money laundering charges when her matter had to be adjourned to Thursday after she required medical attention.
Mapisa-Nqakula’s lawyer confirmed that she has not been admitted to hospital but has visited her private doctor.
“Even yesterday she was actually noticed by the court that she was tired. Unfortunately, we are not doctors, so we are not able to give a diagnosis, but she looked like she was fatigued.”
The lawyer also attributed Mapisa-Nqakula's tiredness to the lengthy court proceedings, which have gone on since 20 July.
“We are stretching closer to two months. A court process is gruelling and tiring and frustrating even to us practitioners who have been doing it for almost half or more than half our lifetime. So it is worse for a person who is not used to it,” he said.
Mapisa-Nqakula faces 12 charges of corruption and one of money laundering.
These are linked to allegations that she solicited and received millions of rands in bribes, while serving as Defence Minister.
The former minister admitted that defence contractor Nombasa Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu visited her home but said they discussed a family matter.
She denied soliciting or receiving bribes from Ntsondwa-Ndhlovu.
Mapisa-Nqakula's lawyer said they will await confirmation from the doctors to decide on Thursday proceedings.
This communication, he said, is expected to happen before the end of the Wednesday.
“If the doctor recommends that she take a rest, then it will mean that we have to go back to the court's diary and look at the future availabilities.
“The family will update me if she's not in a position to address me, and then I will address my team of advocates accordingly so we can prepare either to proceed tomorrow or to address the court as to the way forward.”