03 Jul 2025

The infamous University of Botswana murder accused, Bantshuti Nkgarapi has pleaded with Chief Magistrate  Ms Kamogelo Mmesi to grant him bail.

Nkgarapi (37) made the plea through his attorney Mr Tiroyaone Sedimo at Extension II Magistrate Court yesterday.

 The attorney, reasoned that his client had the right to be presumed innocent until proven guilty, hence entitled to his liberty.

Also, Mr Sedimo said the accused was not a flight risk and there was no evidence before the court to suggest any likelihood of  him committing a crime.

Mr Sedimo also told the court that his client being admitted to bail, would not spark any public outrage as argued by the prosecution as no evidence had been submitted to suggest such.

 Further, Mr Sedimo said there was no evidence before the court implying his client’s likelihood to interfere with investigations if admitted to bail.

However, state prosecutor from the Directorate of Public Prosecution (DPP), Mr Pascal Mhandu objected to the bail application, arguing that the state was still closing up its investigations.

 He said it was in the interest of justice to have the accused person incarcerated for now as his release could anger the public as the offence was committed in broad day light in the glare of the public.

“The incident was committed at UB in the full glare of the public. What will the court be saying if this man walk out today on bail?” he said, adding that such was also likely to impact public confidence on the country’s judicial system.

He further said some of the witnesses to the alleged crime were undergoing counselling hence they had not recorded their statements yet.

Mr Mhandu also said admitting the accused on bail was not ideal as there were no special circumstances presented before the court by the defence for the accused to be considered for bail.

“On that basis I oppose the bail application and apply that he be kept in custody,” Mr Mhandu said.

Nkgarapi is accused of having murdered Bogadi Mokganelwa at the University of Botswana on June 16. He is alleged to have stabbed her with a sharp instrument.

The accused who is a traditional doctor and founder of Progressive Ministry Apostolic Faith Healing Church will appear before Magistrate Mmesi on July 17 for his bail ruling. ENDS