In a tense courtroom scene at the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court, emotions ran high during the latest appearance of the accused in the Kirsten Kluyts murder case.

The defence and the presiding judge in the Gauteng court clashed, leaving the Kirsten Kluyts case postponed until May 2024.

Kirsten Kluyts murder court case hits a wall

A 21-year-old college student (unmanned) is facing charges of rape, robbery and premeditated murder of deceased teacher Kirsten Kluyts. The young man briefly appeared for what was expected to be an appeal against the denial of bail in December 2023.

The State prosecutor Ayanda Bakana, has argued that the ongoing investigations should warrant a postponement. Considering the outstanding DNA results, both the state and the defence have agreed to reconvene on May 10 2024, according to The Citizen.

Advocate Itumeleng Masako tries to address Magistrate court

Itumeleng Masako, the accused’s lawyer, sought to address the court, which only tightened tensions. The presiding officer, Magistrate Renier Boshoff, interrupted him, which led to a heated exchange. Masako accused Boshoff of disrespect and threatened to report him to the Magistrate’s Commission. He stated, “Your conduct is out of order, sir, with the greatest respect. You do not have any respect for us as legal practitioners.”

Adv Masako feels Magistrate court was unprofessional

Masako asked for proper conduct, emphasising the need for respectful treatment in legal proceedings. Despite the courtroom clashes, the bail appeal remains a critical aspect of the case, with the accused facing serious charges and the victim’s family seeking justice.

The tragic murder of Kirsten Kluyts

Kirsten Kluyts, a teacher at Delta Park High School. Kluyts was attacked during a MyRun event in Sandton on October 29, 2023. Her body was later discovered at George Lea Park. The accused, arrested in November, is alleged to have stalked Kluyts before raping and murdering her.