Defence advocate Thulani Mngomezulu, representing the first accused in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, has died. His family confirmed his passing in a statement yesterday, 10 December 2024.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father, and son. We confirm his untimely passing in the early hours of December 10, 2024, at Thelle Mogoerane Hospital in Vosloorus. In this time of grief, we ask for your compassion, space, and time to congregate as a family to decide on the upcoming days. We thank you for the love and support in advance and ask that you continue to keep us in your prayers,” the family said in the statement.
Mngomezulu had been absent from court proceedings for over a month due to illness. He was representing Muzikawukhulelwa Sibiya, the first accused in the trial, who allegedly confessed to being part of the group that killed Meyiwa on October 26, 2014, while the footballer was visiting his then-girlfriend, singer Kelly Khumalo, at her home in Vosloorus.
Earlier this year, in January, it emerged that Mngomezulu was facing charges of attempted murder, conspiracy to commit murder, contravention of a protection order, and resisting arrest. These charges stemmed from a domestic dispute with his wife in November 2022. Despite his wife’s attempts to withdraw the charges, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) proceeded with the case, citing the need to protect women and children and to ensure justice is served. Mngomezulu allegedly bought petrol and intended to burn his house with his wife and children inside.
In April 2024, Mngomezulu reported threats to his life after two unknown men visited his home under suspicious circumstances. This led Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng, presiding over the Meyiwa trial, to order police protection for him.
Mngomezulu’s illness had previously caused delays in the trial. In October 2024, proceedings were adjourned due to his health issues. He had been following the trial remotely, as attending court was deemed detrimental to his recovery.
The passing of Advocate Mngomezulu adds another layer of complexity to the already protracted Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, which has faced numerous delays and controversies since the Bafana Bafana captain’s death in 2014.
