Jailed Buyanga in critical condition

Lawyers representing incarcerated businessman Frank Buyanga Sadiqi have raised concerns over the impact of his continued detention on his health. Reports from South Africa indicate that Buyanga has fallen ill while in prison, prompting his legal team to call on the judiciary to expedite the review of his case.

Buyanga, through his Hamilton Foundation lawyers, has argued that his detention violates section 50 of the Criminal Procedure Act, which mandates that an arrested individual must be presented before a court within 48 hours. Despite recently offering R12 million as bail, his request was denied.

"Sadiqi has fallen ill in hospital. He has been subjected to unlawful detention, procedural irregularities, and a blatant miscarriage of justice. His detention contravenes section 50 of the Criminal Procedure Act," the lawyers stated.

Buyanga was arrested on November 29, 2022, but was only brought before the court for his first appearance on December 7, 2022. His legal representatives have accused the South African Hawks of abusing their power.

"The Hawks registered a parallel criminal docket against immigration practitioners who assisted Sadiqi, acting beyond their legal mandate. There are also false allegations and a lack of evidence. The State's case against Sadiqi lacks prima facie evidence, and the complainant's credibility has been severely compromised," the lawyers asserted.

Regarding allegations of an attempted escape from prison, Buyanga's lawyers argue that these claims are baseless and were fabricated to prevent him from securing bail.

"This allegation has further compromised his right to a fair trial. We demand the immediate and unconditional release of Sadiqi, the dismissal of all charges, and a thorough investigation into the abuses of power by the Hawks, SAPS, and other involved authorities."

The lawyers have urged the judiciary to accelerate the review of Buyanga's case to ensure justice is served without further delay. They have also appealed to human rights organizations and legal bodies to stand in solidarity with their client.

Buyanga's legal representatives recently petitioned the South African presidency, demanding his release. He has been detained in a Johannesburg facility since 2022 over allegations of kidnapping, fraud, and financial crimes. His supporters argue that the charges against him are "concocted and malicious," and that he has been denied access to private medical healthcare, further exacerbating his deteriorating health.