Expelled ANC Youth League leader Julius Malema and his four co-accused were back in the Polokwane Magistrate's Court on charges including fraud and racketeering.
Around 11am, the legal team representing Malema and his business associates Kagisho Dichabe, Lesiba Gwangwa, Helen Moreroa, and Makgetsi Manthata, argued against the State's request for a postponement.
Malema is accused of making nearly R4 million from corrupt activities. He is out on bail of R10,000 and faces charges of fraud, corruption, money-laundering, and racketeering. His co-accused are out on bail of R40,000 each.
On Thursday the court was expected to transfer the matter to the high court and set a date for the trial.
Unlike at earlier appearances, there were no supporters picketing outside the court. Bystanders seemed surprised at the police presence and closed streets around the court.
The matter relates to a contract which the Limpopo roads and transport department awarded to a company with links to Malema.
The State alleges that the five misrepresented themselves to the department, leading to a R52 million contract being awarded to On-Point Engineering.
According to court papers, Malema had business ties with Gwangwa, a director of On-Point Engineering. Malema's Ratanang Family Trust was an indirect shareholder in On-Point.
The department paid the company R43m. According to the charge sheet, Malema substantially benefited from this payment, using it to buy a multi-million rand farm and a Mercedes Benz.
Malema allegedly did this knowing that the money formed part of the proceeds of crime. All five have proclaimed their innocence.
The case continues.
Just R20 for the first month. Support independent journalism by subscribing to our digital news package.