JAMMING IN JAIL
Tswelelo Kgaolo (38), accused of inflicting life-threatening injuries on his girlfriend during a violent confrontation, left the courtroom in disbelief after his request to be allowed to take his Kwasa Kwasa music to Radio Botswana so it can be played while he remains behind bars, was acceded to.
Facing Magistrate Lentlhabetse Willie at the Palapye Magistrate Court, a forever confident and outspoken Kgaolo said he had been in custody since his arrest last year and never got the chance to wrap up his business.
“When I was arrested, I was working with a certain producer, and the project was almost complete. I only owed him P500, which I now have. I just need permission to pass by his place, give him his money, and collect my work,” he told the court.
The aspiring musician explained that he had already called Radio Botswana, and the station promised to play his music once he submitted it. “I beg this court to allow me to drop my songs there, they said it is fine for me to deliver my work,” he pleaded with the magistrate.
Kgaolo, who has pleaded not guilty to charges of grievous bodily harm, argued that his prolonged stay in custody was ruining his life and career. “It has been a full year, and as I wait for judgment, I just want to make a few pulas for myself so that when I am released, I do not come out to nothing,” he said.
Magistrate Willie did not dismiss the request; instead, he instructed the prosecution to ensure a safe process that would allow Kgaolo to meet the producer and submit his music, if it did not compromise the ongoing case.
He explained that as long as Kgaolo had not been found guilty, he could not be denied his basic rights or activities that do not interfere with the case.
The prosecution agreed to assist the accused with his unusual request.
Kgaolo made his plea after judgment on his case was postponed for the third time, with the magistrate saying he was “almost done” writing the ruling.
The ruling is expected to be delivered next week.