Shebeshxt Bail Hearing Nears Conclusion as Defence, State Clash

Shebeshxt’s bail is still dragging. (SABC News)

by Mathipa Phishego

Closing arguments in the bail application of musician Shebeshxt ‘Shebe Mabena’ were presented this morning at the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court. As the defence and the State offered sharply differing views on whether his release would serve the interests of justice.

Advocate Mokgopo, representing Shebeshxt, argued that his client does not pose a flight risk and should be granted bail. In support of this position, Mokgopo cited recent bail-related cases, including those of Cat Matlala and Katiso Molefe.

He told the court that Molefe was initially arrested and released on bail, only to be arrested again days later on a separate matter.

Mokgopo noted that while the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court later denied Molefe bail. The Johannesburg High Court overturned that decision and granted bail, arguing that precedent shows higher courts have favoured bail where the interests of justice permit. On that basis, he submitted that Shebe Mabena should similarly be released on bail.

The State, rejected the defence’s argument. During its closing submissions, the prosecution maintained that Shebeshxt’s legal team had failed to demonstrate exceptional circumstances.

Which are required for bail in cases of this nature. The State insisted that the threshold set by law had not been met.