The murder case against a 54-year-old residence manager accused of fatally shooting a Walter Sisulu University student has been postponed until May 2 for a formal bail application. The accused, Manelisi Mampane, appeared in court following the death of Sisonke Mbolekwa during a student protest over poor living conditions.
The incident occurred during a demonstration sparked by dissatisfaction with accommodation provided under the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. The protest escalated when students reportedly confronted Mampane at his on-campus residence and set his vehicle on fire. During the altercation, Mbolekwa was shot and killed, and three other students were injured.
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Due to the sensitive nature of the case, the court barred media from recording the proceedings after the defense argued for privacy. Despite this, the prosecution did not object to media coverage. Outside the courthouse, large crowds of students gathered to protest, calling for the accused to be denied bail.
The university has been gripped by unrest as students raise concerns about the deteriorating conditions in their residences, citing issues such as cracked walls, broken tiles, and damaged ceilings.
In response to the shooting, an independent inquiry led by retired Justice Chris Jafta will investigate the circumstances surrounding Mbolekwa’s death, including possible failings by university officials or students.
Separately, the university attempted to evict protesting students, arguing that the protests had turned violent. However, the Mthatha High Court dismissed the application for eviction, instead issuing an interdict to prevent both removals and further destruction of property. The judge emphasized the importance of protecting student lives while allowing peaceful demonstrations that uphold the institution’s integrity.