Thulani Mngomezulu: Defence lawyer in Meyiwa murder trial dies
Thulani Mngomezulu, Defence Lawyer in Senzo Meyiwa Murder Trial, Passes Away
Advocate Thulani Mngomezulu, who represented two of the accused in the high-profile Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, has passed away.
His family confirmed that he died in the early hours of Wednesday, 10 December 2024, after battling illness.
Mngomezulu’s Role in the Meyiwa Trial
Mngomezulu joined the case in October 2023 as the defence lawyer for Muzi Sibiya (Accused 1) and Bongani Ntanzi (Accused 2).
He played a critical role in defending the five men charged with the murder of former Bafana Bafana captain Senzo Meyiwa.
The accused face charges including:
Premeditated murder
Attempted murder
Robbery with aggravated circumstances
Illegal possession of firearms and ammunition
All five men pleaded not guilty.
Health Struggles and Court Absence
Mngomezulu had been unwell in recent months, which impacted his ability to actively participate in court proceedings.
His last court appearance was on 22 October 2024, where he was visibly unwell, wearing a face mask and using a fan to assist him.
He had been following the trial proceedings virtually and was expected to cross-examine lead investigator Bongani Gininda.
However, in November, he requested a postponement of his cross-examination due to his health, adding delays to the already protracted case.
Speculations Around His Death
While Mngomezulu’s passing has been officially attributed to illness, some speculate that there may be more to the story.
The case has been marred by allegations and conspiracy theories, with some suggesting that Kelly Khumalo, who was in the house when Meyiwa was shot, might have played a role in a cover-up.
These theories are fueled by claims that Meyiwa was murdered to protect sensitive secrets, and some now believe that Mngomezulu’s death could be part of a broader effort to delay justice.
Speculation is rife that he may have been targeted because he was allegedly getting closer to uncovering the truth behind the soccer star’s death.
The Impact of His Passing on the Trial
The loss of Mngomezulu raises concerns about further delays in the trial. A new lawyer will likely need to be appointed for his clients, potentially requiring additional time for preparation and review of the case.
The trial, which has been ongoing for nearly a decade, remains a subject of public interest. Meyiwa, a national soccer hero, was shot on 26 October 2014 at the Vosloorus home of his then-girlfriend, singer Kelly Khumalo.
Eyewitnesses, including Khumalo’s sister Zandile Khumalo and Meyiwa’s friends Mthokozisi Twala and Tumelo Madlala, have provided testimony.
Public Reaction
Mngomezulu’s death has sparked both grief and controversy. Some fear that his passing will prolong justice for Meyiwa’s family, while others believe it points to the deep challenges and secrets surrounding the case.
As South Africa continues to demand answers, the loss of a key legal figure adds another layer of complexity to a trial that has captured the nation’s attention for years.
