The National Prosecuting Authority has resumed its case against Nokwazi Ngonyama, three years after she allegedly assaulted her domestic worker in Tokyo.
National Director of Public Prosecutions Andy Mothibi instructed the Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions on Wednesday to proceed with the assault charge in the Mdantsane Magistrates’ Court.
The alleged incident occurred on 14 July 2023 at the South African ambassadorial residence in Tokyo, where Smuts Ngonyama served as ambassador. Domestic worker Tandiswa Tokwe laid charges in October 2023 after returning to South Africa.
The case faced repeated delays, including failed summons attempts and a jurisdiction challenge that led to temporary dismissal in August 2025. It was reinstated in October 2025.
Tokwe’s lawyer Pumelele Hole said on Wednesday: “It has been a long and debilitating wait for justice. Hopefully, Miss Tokwe and her children will receive justice after the incident, which changed their lives for the worse.”
