The trial of Limpopo doctor Justice Mulaudzi, who is charged with the rape of four women, including three patients, was postponed to September 18 by the Sibasa Regional Court on Monday.

The postponement follows a request by the defence after an expert gynaecologist, Prof Greta Dreyer from the University of Pretoria, had given evidence of the patient/doctor relationship. Dreyer was cross-examined by the State, represented by Adv Christopher Dreyer, while Mulaudzi is being represented by Adv Essau Ngwana.

Unlike in the past when the court used to be filled to capacity during his appearance, this time there were few people in the small court room.

The defence needed time to consult with their client, following the evidence by the gynaecologist.

The case has been set for 18 and 19 September, after the State indicated that it was no longer going to call any more witnesses.

Mulaudzi, the clinical manager at Hayani Hospital, is alleged to have raped two of his patients during consultations at a private practice at Ha-Makhuvha, outside Thohoyandou. The incidents are alleged to have taken place two years ago.

The Malamulele case was opened while Mulaudzi was working as a doctor at the Malamulele Hospital in 2006. The case, which was subsequently withdrawn at the time, due to a lack of evidence, was reinstated after members of the community complained that it had not been properly handled.

Mulaudzi (43), of Makwerala Extension near Thohoyandou, is a well-known figure in the area as well as a respected church man.