In a poignant turn of events, tributes are pouring in for Thulani Mngomezulu, the esteemed lawyer representing accused number one in the high-profile Senzo Meyiwa murder trial, who has passed away in the early hours of Tuesday morning.
Mngomezulu's family confirmed his untimely death in a heartfelt statement, revealing that he succumbed to his illness in the early hours of December 10, 2024, at Thelle Morearane Hospital in Vosloorus.
Before his tragic passing, Mngomezulu had been absent from court since November 8 due to health complications.
Early this year, in the ongoing murder trial of Senzo Meyiwa, Judge Ratha Mokgoatlheng was forced to take drastic measures to protect Mngomezulu after reports seemed to suggest that he was a victim of death threats against him.
The judge subsequently ordered the police to provide protection to Mngomezulu after two unknown men attempted to harm him at his place of residence. This revelation came to light during the proceedings at the North Gauteng High Court in Pretoria in April this year.
He was actively involved in one of South Africa's most closely followed murder trials, representing Muzi Sibiya, one of five men accused of the 2014 murder of Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana captain Senzo Meyiwa.
His wife, Dumisile Mngomezulu, in a statement said: 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 the 10th of December 2024 at Vosloorus, Thelle Mogoerane Hospital. In this time of grief, we ask for your compassion, space and time to congregate as a family to decide on the upcoming days."
Mngomezulu was slated to commence his cross-examination of the lead investigator, Brigadier Bongani Gininda, shortly before being compelled to step back from his duties.
The implications of his absence were evident during the trial proceedings when Advocate George Baloyi addressed the court, stating, “I’m sorry my lord, I’m told that Mr Mngomezulu is uncomfortable. He is not feeling well, he’s indisposed my lord. I think he is having difficulties, my lord; can we please adjourn, my lord?” This statement marked a pivotal moment in a trial that has gripped South African society for nearly a decade.
In recent weeks, Mngomezulu had been attending court proceedings virtually, yet his participation was deeply missed as he endeavoured to advocate for his client amidst a sea of complex legal challenges.
His dedication to justice was acknowledged by his peers, with Mduduzi Maseko expressing, “Farewell to Advocate Mngomezulu. You fought a good fight and stood firm in the pursuit of justice. May your spirit continue to inspire the quest for truth and accountability. Rest in peace, and thank you for your dedication.”
This is as the Meyiwa murder trial remains a poignant chapter in South Africa’s legal landscape, with implications resonating beyond the courtroom.
As the nation reflects on Mngomezulu's contributions, friends, colleagues, and family are united in their grief, seeking comfort in the legacy he leaves behind. “In this time of grief, we ask for your compassion, space and time to congregate as a family and decide on the upcoming days,” the family implored, extending their gratitude for the public’s support during this difficult period.
In January this year, Mngomezulu was embroiled in domestic affair after his wife a laid a complaints of attempted murder and conspiracy to commit murder against him police allegedly found petrol on Mngomezulu’s car following threats that he would burn the house where his wife and children live.
The Star
siyabonga.sithole@inl.co.za