Judge rules that parts of the athlete’s trial can be broadcast.
Ahead of Oscar Pistorius’ trial for the alleged murder of girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp, a South African judge has ruled that parts of it can be televised.
It will be the first time in the nation’s history that parts of a trial will be broadcast after an application was submitted by media groups MultiChoice, eNCA and Eyewitness News.
Judge Dunstan Mlambo has ruled that the entire audio of the trial can be broadcast live and that sections can be shown live on television.
This will include opening arguments, evidence of experts, police witnesses and closing arguments, but Justice Mlambo has exempt the testimony of the accused and his witnesses.
MultiChoice are planning to launch a dedicated channel to the trial – the Oscar Pistorius Trial channel – which begins broadcast on Sunday.
The defence have said that the decision from Mlambo will prejudice proceedings, but the judge believes it will address misconceptions about the justice system; although has warned against a trial by media.
Mr Pistorius shot Ms Steenkamp three times through a toilet door at the athlete’s home in Pretoria on February 14 2013.
The South African claims that he thought the 29-year-old was an intruder and has denied claims from the prosecution that the couple had argued before the shooting.
As well as the charge of premeditated murder, Mr Pistorius also faces a charge of illegal possession of ammunition.
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