Boeremag trial on hold - again

2003-06-17 12:15

Pretoria - The treason trial of 22 alleged Boeremag members was postponed for the fourth time on Tuesday over unresolved legal aid issues.

Expressing concern that the delays were damaging the image of the administration of justice, judge Eben Jordaan urged the parties to sort out the outstanding matters before the next appearance on Monday.

The trial was to have started on May 19, but has now been postponed four times over wrangling between the Legal Aid Board and the defence.

The 22 alleged rightwingers stand accused of plotting to overthrow the government with the aim of declaring a Boer republic.

They face a main charge of high treason and four alternative counts each of terrorism and sabotage.

One count each of murder and attempted murder and an alternative count of conspiracy to murder are also listed.

The rest of the 43 charges relate to the illegal possession, manufacturing and use of explosives, arms and ammunition.

- SAPA