Sikhumbuzo Zungu appeared in the Pinetown Regional Court yesterday (June 9) in connection with the murder of Babongile Nkonyeni, the mother of his child.

According to Highway Mail, Nkonyeni’s mother, Sibongile Shezi, said she is ‘tired’ of seeing his face. Zungu is due back in court on August 21 for a pre-trial conference, and Shezi said after the proceedings she hoped the matter could speedily reach a conclusion where the accused is convicted and sentenced.

“I don’t want to keep having to come to court because it will not bring my child back to life. It would be better if he was convicted and sentenced because I am tired of seeing his face,” said Shezi.

Shezi, who lives in Umzinto, also spoke of the financial toll of travelling for Zungu’s court appearances.

Delays frustrate family

The matter has experienced several delays at the Pinetown Regional Court, some due to Zungu having to secure legal representation. Nkonyeni’s family previously expressed frustration over the delays and said they hoped the trial would commence soon.

It is alleged Zungu murdered Nkonyeni at about 03:00 on October 26, at a residence in Pinetown. Zungu was arrested two days later.

Zungu faces an additional charge of theft because, at the time of his arrest, he was found in possession of two cellphones, allegedly belonging to Nkonyeni. Late last year, Zungu was denied bail by the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court.

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