Didintle Blessing Tladi who was arrested for allegedly stabbing Lethabo Sibanda to death during a fight in 2023 appeared before Rustenburg Magistrates Court on Monday, 14 April.
The case was postponed to 06 May for medical report to be submitted. The court heard that the Correctional Services have also not received the report. Didintle was taken to hospital for observation as he is unable to walk. He has been using a wheelchair during Court proceedings.
The Didintle’s attorney had since requested to apply for a re-bail application based on new facts which is still pending. He was arrested in June 2023 for the alleged murder of Lethabo Sibanda (18), a pupil at Hoër Tegniese Skool who was stabbed to death at Rustenburg Bus Rank. He was allegedly stabbed in the throat with a sharp object during a fight.Didintle was denied bail in July 2023 when the state successfully opposed it. The court stated the reasons stated by the accused during his application did not prove why it was in the best interest of justice that he be granted bail.
Lethabo’s father Benjamin Mafora said the case has been dragged for too long. “It’s frustrating how we have made no process. We are still waiting for a medical report which seems like it doesn’t exist.”He said they will not however let what is happening discourage them. “We want justice, and we will never lose hope.”
Member of Labour Party, Kgomotso Magadane said the prolonging of this matter is unacceptable. She says the justice system fails the poor. “Our sisters and mothers fear reporting rape cases because of such treatment,” she said.
Tshegofatso Mamorare from Action SA said they are showing support to the Sibanda family. She says they want to ensure that they get justice. “The delays are hurting this family as there is no process. The court keeps postponing the case which opens wounds.”
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