18 Jun 2025

Extension II Magistrate, Ms Kamogelo Mmesi, has blamed the Department of Public Prosecution  (DPP) for withholding information about a restraining order against Bantshuti Nkgarapi, who is charged with stabbing and murdering Magadi Mokganelwa, an employee at the University of Botswana. 

During the remand hearing yesterday, Magistrate Mmesi expressed her frustration openly in court. 

“This lady died because I granted this man bail. We also feel the pain. Someone should be held accountable for this woman’s murder,” she said.

She explained that the prosecution had withheld information about the restraining order against Nkgarapi, during an earlier bail application. 

The accused was granted bail despite facing a threat-to-kill charge, a decision the Magistrate believed might have been different if the court had been aware of the restraining order.

Nkgarapi, 37, who is unemployed, is accused of stabbing Mokganelwa to death at the university on Monday. 

The suspect has reserved his plea on the murder charge and indicated plans to secure legal representation.

He also requested a transfer to Mochudi Prison, citing the desire to be closer to a sibling who could care for him and expresed discomfort with the smoking and drug use at Gaborone Central Prison, where he is currently remanded.

 Additionally, Nkgarapi asked the court for protection of his property, claiming that his belongings had been taken by the deceased’s relatives during a recent visit to collect medication.

Magistrate Mmesi rejected the transfer request, stating that Nkgarapi needed to provide a medical report to substantiate his health status claims. 

Earlier, state prosecutor, Mr Pascal Mhandu informed the court that the state planned  to oppose any bail application, asserting that Nkgarapi would need to demonstrate exceptional circumstances should he apply for bail in future proceedings.

Mr Mhandu said that the state's position was based on findings indicating premeditated murder, but noted that the state position would be deliberated when the accused makes his application.

In addition to the new charges of threat to kill and murder, Nkgarapi was acquitted last year of a single rape charge after the complaint withdrew the matter when the trial was about to commence.

   Nkgarapi, a pastor at the Progressive Ministry Apostolic Faith Healing Church, is remanded in custody and will appear for mention on July 3. ENDS