The Press
February 5 2007

Charlene's uncle remanded
by Mike Steere

The uncle of 10-year-old Charlene Makaza will reappear in the Christchurch District Court on Wednesday.

George Evans Gwaze, 54, was not required to plead at his appearance on Saturday to a charge that he murdered Charlene Nyasha Makaza in Christchurch between January 5 and 7. Gwaze also faces two charges of sexually violating Charlene.

Gwaze, a short, stocky man,, showed little emotion as he stood in the dock on Saturday.

His appearance lasted minutes before he was remanded in custody to reappear on Wednesday. No application was made for bail.

Members of Gwaze's family, including his wife, Sifiso, sat in the court. His family was visibly distressed before and after the court appearance, and declined to comment.

Duty solicitor John O'Connell applied for interim name suppression for Gwaze.

Police prosecutor Dave Joker opposed suppression, saying the police investigation had gained a high public profile and Gwaze's name should not be kept secret.

Justices of the Peace Nick Atkins and Stan Beavon refused the application, pointing out that Gwaze's name had already been made public.

Gwaze was arrested on Friday night.

His appearance in court on Saturday came four weeks after Charlene, an immigrant from Zimbabwe, was admitted to Christchurch Hospital and two weeks after her memorial service.

Homicide inquiry head Detective Inspector Malcolm Johnston earlier declined to comment on the case.

Charlene died in Christchurch Hospital on January 7.

Her 12-year-old sister has been placed in Child Youth and Family (CYF) care.