Forgive and forget

Christian woman refuses to testify against ex-lover

A 42-year-old Maun woman has refused to testify against her ex-lover in a domestic violence case, telling court she has forgiven him.

Appearing before the Magistrates Court this week, devout Christian, Enamile Martha Olebogeng revealed she did not want to be part of the case against her former beau, Tirelo Kgomotso Dotora, because the same Bible she used to take an oath preaches forgiveness.

“We have discussed this matter and reconciled. Above all, God says we must forgive each other; I have forgiven him,” declared Olebogeng, much to the court’s surprise.

“I am before this court with regard to the case in which Tirelo injured me. I no longer want to continue with the matter because he is responsible for his blind father and he is also taking care of the children,” continued the merciful lady.

The background of the case is that on 9 May, at around 2200hrs at Disaneng ward in Maun, Dotora attacked Olebogeng at her house, stabbing her on the arm and shoulder with a sharp object.

It is further alleged that when Olebogang’s mother, Maikgantsho Olebogeng tried to intervene, he turned on her and stabbed her on the left arm.

Initially facing two counts of unlawful wounding, the charges against Dotora have now been halved after Olebogang’s heartfelt declaration left the police with little choice but to withdraw the first case.

However, unwilling to take her daughter’s ‘forgive and forget’ route, Maikgantsho remains determined to see her case through.

Commencement of trial has thus been set for 6 and 7 December.