By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Mthatha Magistrates Court has postponed the murder case of a student killed at the Walter Sisulu University (WSU) in Mthatha, Eastern Cape.
Fifty-four-year-old Manelisi Mampana, university residence manager appeared in the Mthatha Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, after handing himself over to police last Thursday following the fatal shooting of student, Sisonke Mbolekwa.
Outside the court, scores of WSU students protested, calling for Mampana to be denied bail.
Mbolekwa (24) was allegedly shot by Mampana, during a protest last week over deteriorating living conditions at university residences accredited by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).
Three other students were injured and taken to the hospital.
Mbolekwa’s family said an autopsy report has revealed he was shot while running.
Family spokesperson Ncedo Kolanisi has outlined the autopsy findings.
“The findings of the autopsy report were that the bullet hit the back through the tarsal, so it simply tells you that Sisonke Mbolekwa was retreating when he got shot.”
NPA spokesperson, Luxolo Tyali, says Mampana faces four charges: murder, attempted murder, and possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
The suspect remains in custody.
The matter has now been postponed to 2 May 2025 for a formal bail application.
Meanwhile, an independent investigation led by retired Justice Chris Jafta, assisted by two advocates and an attorney, will probe the events that led to Mbolekwa’s death.
The inquiry will also assess whether there were lapses by students or university officials in managing the situation.