‘Coup plotter’ Ramosebudi’s trial to begin next month

The trial of alleged coup plotter Elvis Ramosebudi, who is also accused of plotting to assassinate senior South African government officials thought to have benefited from state capture, will begin in September.

During a brief appearance at the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court on Friday, state prosecutor Johan Badenhorst said all relevant documents required for the trial had been handed over to the defence.

Magistrate Matsitse asked the defence if they have been paid for their services so far because he did not want any glitches during the trial.

“Before a marathon you need to train, we are ready for the marathon,” responded Ramosebudi’s legal representative, Motebang Ramaili.

The alleged assassination list includes President Jacob Zuma, his son, Duduzane, members of the Gupta family, former Eskom boss Brian Molefe, South African Airways board chairperson Dudu Myeni, former Eskom chairperson Ben Ngubane, head of the National Prosecuting Authority Shaun Abrahams and Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs Minister Des van Rooyen.

The matter was remanded to September 11 for plea and trial. Ramosebudi remains out on R3 000 bail.