Joki’s murder accused to know their fate in December

THE four men accused of gunning down popular radio presenter, Ralikonelo “Leqhashasha” Joki, will have to wait until 3 December 2025 to know their fate.

This after High Court Judge Tšeliso Mokoko last week reserved judgment in a case that will determine whether the quartet is guilty of murder or not. The Crown, led by Advocate Christopher Lephuthing, and the defence, represented by Advocate Lepeli Molapo, made their final submissions on Monday this week — closing a case that has gripped the nation since Joki’s brutal assassination outside his workplace, Tšenolo FM, at Ha Thamae on 14 May 2023.

The accused — Sootho Liphoto, Mothusi Tlelase, Moabi Sesioana, and Kamo Phakoe — are charged with Joki’s murder in what prosecutors described as a calculated hit. Messrs Tlelase, Liphoto, and Sesioana are also charged with the 20 May 2023 murders of Parliament Committee Coordinator Mothibe Mothibe and Thomello Ntsane, sister to Senior Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mamello Ntsane.

In his closing arguments, Adv Lephuthing painted a picture of a cold-blooded conspiracy, arguing that the four men should all be found guilty because they acted in concert.