Loyiso Nkohla-Mabandla murder trial postponed again as widow calls for justice

Nyameka Mabandla supported by political parties GOOD, ACC and SACP

The long-awaited murder trial of slain community activist Loyiso Nkohla-Mabandla was postponed at the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on Monday, October 26, after a legal representative for one of the accused failed to attend proceedings.

Three accused appeared in court in connection with the murder of Nkohla-Mabandla, who was shot dead during a community meeting in Philippi in April 2023. The matter was postponed to 2 November 2026.

Nkohla-Mabandla was a former Cape Town councillor and co-founder of the Ses’khona People’s Rights Movement, widely known for leading protests against poor sanitation and fighting for housing, basic services and the rights of informal settlement residents.

Speaking outside court, his widow, Nyameka Mabandla, expressed mixed emotions over the latest development, saying she was relieved that the case had finally reached the trial stage despite repeated postponements.

"I feel very relieved that we've gotten to this point. It's been a long year and a half of postponements and everything. So, for me, today brings a little bit of emotional relief for myself and for my children," she said.

However, Mabandla said the continued delays were taking an emotional toll on her family.

"I think it is a bit unfair for us, because this is an emotionally taxing and draining exercise. For me to keep coming here and then there's that postponement always, it really takes a toll on my emotional well-being."

Several political parties attended proceedings to show solidarity with the grieving family.

GOOD party spokesperson Mandilakhe Tshwete welcomed the progress, despite the postponement.

"We are actually happy that the trial has finally started, even though it was a quick postponement," said Tshwete, expressing hope that the matter would be finalised within three months.

South African Communist Party (SACP) Western Cape provincial secretary Benson Ngqentsu pledged continued support for the family.

"We are confident that indeed the trial is going to be expedited," he said, adding that the outcome should send a strong message to criminal networks targeting communities.

African Congress for Transformation (ACC) leader Masizole Mnqasela renewed calls for tougher punishment for violent criminals, including reinstating the death penalty.

"We cannot continue having people dying like flies in Cape Town ... dying like flies in South Africa," Mnqasela said.

Mabandla thanked political leaders and relatives for their continued support, stressing that her priority remained hearing the evidence presented in court rather than speculation surrounding her husband's murder.

"I'm more interested in the facts that will be tabled in court, rather than emotions and conspiracy theories," she said.

The three accused are expected back in court on Monday, November 2, 2026.