Murder accused Ferrel Govender changes legal team due to financial woes ahead of trial
Former security boss Ferrel Govender, accused of murder, changes legal representation due to financial difficulties as his trial approaches in January 2027.
Image: Nadia Khan
Former security boss Ferrel Govender, who is facing murder charges, has been compelled to change his legal team due to financial difficulties ahead of his trial, which is now scheduled to commence in January 2027.
Govender, along with his younger brother Darren, is charged with the murder of businessman Shailen Singh.
The brothers allegedly shot Singh in broad daylight on December 29, 2024, on Meridian Drive in Umhlanga, following accusations that Singh was having an affair with Govender's girlfriend, Saloma Ramrutton/Kisten.
During a pre-trial conference on Thursday morning at the Durban High Court, attorney Ravindra Maniklall announced his withdrawal from representing Govender, citing that his client could no longer afford his services.
“I have run into a problem with accused two (Ferrel) with finances. We have made a decision together that I will withdraw so that he can obtain a more affordable lawyer,” Maniklall told the court.
Judge Nompumelelo Radebe confirmed this with Govender, who consented to the withdrawal. Maniklall had previously instructed advocate Michael Helens SC to represent Govender, while Darren continues to be represented by advocate Christo van Schalkwyk SC.
Advocate Laurence Hodes SC then placed himself on record as Govender’s new representative, stating that he was instructed by Arvina Harrichan Attorneys. Hodes informed the court that Govender’s new legal team would consist of himself and two attorneys, assuring the court: “We are the more affordable representatives.”
Senior state prosecutor, advocate Krishen Shah, also addressed the court. Initially, the State sought two sessions for the murder trial; however, an agreement was reached with the defence that one session would suffice.
Furthermore, both the State and defence agreed to list the matter as a back-up for the 2026 court roll, meaning the trial could proceed if other cases unexpectedly do not go ahead during the year. Shah stressed that if the back-up plan fails, the trial is firmly set to run from January 18, 2027, until February 21, 2027.
Judge Radebe acknowledged the possibility, saying: “The matter can still be accommodated as back-up; the year is still young.”
She then adjourned the matter to April 16 to check if earlier dates could be secured in the 2026 court roll.