Two 18‑year‑old suspects charged with the murder of 19‑year‑old Lusanda Mathabela were denied bail by the Nelspruit magistrate court on Wednesday.
Credits: Timeless Live
By Duncan Mnisi
Mpumalanga – The bail application of the two teenagers charged with the murder of 19‑year‑old Lusanda Mathabela was rejected on Wednesday in the Nelspruit Magistrate’s Court. The case has been postponed until 28 January 2026.
Katlego Mokoena (18) and Lungelo Sithole (18) appeared before the court following the fatal attack on Mathabela at her home in Mataffin on 3 November. The presiding magistrate denied their bail, ordering that they remain in custody until the next hearing.
Family members, community supporters and public figures gathered outside the court to voice their relief and demand action on gender‑based violence. Among those present were Leah Mabuza and Miss Mpumalanga 2025, Malibongwe Mkhwanazi. “Violence against women and children is a serious problem,” they said.
Outside the venue, several groups, including Bella’s Athletics Club and the Gender‑Based Violence and Recovery Centre (GRIP), staged a protest calling for the government to declare gender‑based violence and femicide (GBVF) a national disaster.
Ali Sibiya, a family spokesperson, expressed the family’s anguish: “I am happy because, on a serious note, we are hurting as a family. When they get bail, it will hurt us more.” He added that the family urges the government to act swiftly to curb violence against women and children.
Mathabela’s funeral was held last Saturday at Alliance Church in KaNayamazane, with burial at Rocky Drift Cemetery. Her relatives and supporters continue to press authorities to recognise GBVF as a national disaster, hoping the designation will help protect women and children and save lives.
The next court appearance is scheduled for 28 January 2026, where the prosecution is expected to present further evidence. The community remains vigilant, awaiting justice for Lusanda Mathabela.
