Mbolekwa was shot while retreating: Family

April 23, 2025 64

The family of slain Walter Sisulu University student, Sisonke Mbolekwa, says the autopsy report confirms he was shot from behind.

Family spokesperson, Ncedo Kolanisi, condemned the brutality of the incident, saying it’s clear the 24-year-old was trying to retreat when he was gunned down.

Mbolekwa was among scores of students protesting against poor living conditions on campus when he was murdered. Several other students were injured in the confrontation.

The residence manager, Manelisi Mampana, appeared at the Mthatha Magistrates Court where the matter was postponed to next week Friday.

The 54-year-old faces charges of murder, attempted murder and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

The gun allegedly used in the shooting that claimed Mbolekwa’s life was unlicensed.

Students at the university are calling for justice to prevail, demanding that the residence manager be denied bail.

They also condemned, what they describe as the increasing militarisation of university campuses.

Student body representative at the university, Siyabonga Mnguni, says it is clear that Mampana intended to kill.

“Students kept on singing outside asking the him [res manager] to come out, he then came out, cocked the gun and shot at students, even when shoots ran, he continued to shoot.”

They say Mampana failed to show remorse by failing to hand himself over to police.

I’m sorry I’m sorry Mama —Bengithi ngiyazabalaza‼️‼️‼️

Painful scenes at Mthatha magistrate court as the parents of the late Sisonke Mbolekwa arrives for the appearance of Mr Mampane.

Mampane is the residence Manager at Walter Sisulu University who shot at four students and… pic.twitter.com/FoxXfw45iL

— 🇿🇦 Apostle Dr D Mekgwe🇹🇼 (@ApostleDeza) April 22, 2025