The trial of a former North West EFF chairperson, accused of stealing thousands from the Road Accident Fund, has started.

The state successfully opposed a request by Betty Diale’s newly appointed attorney to have the case postponed longer for consultation. The court ordered the trial to start on Friday (1/12).

Diale’s attorney also indicated they’ll be taking the Director of Public Prosecution’s (DPP) rejection of their representations to have charges against her withdrawn on review, said North West NPA spokesperson, Henry Mamothame.

OFM News previously reported that the DPP had rejected a former attorney’s attempt to have charges withdrawn against her.

“The state has already provided her with all the necessary documents in preparation for trial. The state also hopes there won’t be any further delays recorded as the matter has been postponed numerous times,” he added.

A warrant for her arrest was issued after Diale failed to appear in court on 26 September, and for failing to provide reasons for her absence. She was rearrested on 6 October, and released on warning after producing a medical certificate.

Diale faces six theft charges, amounting to approximately R700,000, allegedly stolen from RAF claimants.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi Corné