Father of Skeem Saam Actress Finally Pleads in Murder Trial
Skeem Saam star’s dad in bail battle!
Skeem Saam actress Amanda Manku’s dad, William Manku, to appear in court for a bail hearing based on new facts. Photo by Kgalalelo Tlhoaele
THE dad to Skeem Saam actress Amanda Manku is not backing down.
William Manku has been denied bail twice and is applying for it again.
The 53-year-old is in custody for his wife, Gladys, and mother-in-law, Letty Maphothoma’s murders.
The two were shot to death in May 2021 in Limpopo on their way home from fetching water. In January, William, his girlfriend, and an alleged hitman were arrested.
The girlfriend’s charges were withdrawn early this year, while the hitman was denied bail. In July, William was denied bail for the second time.
He appeared in the Lebowakgomo Magistrates Court for a bail application based on new facts, but this didn’t sway the court in his favour.
Following his initial bail denial in February 2024, William appealed the decision, and the appeal was also dismissed.
Among the reasons presented were his deteriorating psychological health and financial situation.
William claimed he was experiencing an ancestral calling that left him feeling haunted and threatened.
“If I don’t follow my calling, I’ll go mad or be killed by my ancestors,” he said.
He also said his kids were struggling without him.
“My kids said things are bad for them. They said life isn’t the same anymore and pleaded for my release.”
But all the new facts he presented before court were not strong enough to keep him out of jail. William will be appearing in the Lebowakgomo Magistrates Court for a bail application based on new facts on Friday, 4 October.
