WATCH: Government and groups rally behind Mpho Mokwele’s family
Mpho Mokwele, a mother and teacher, was stabbed several times, allegedly at the hands of her partner, in Lithuli Park on Monday.
POLOKWANE – In eight days, the suspected murderer of slain Mpho Mokwele (31) will appear before the Seshego Magistrate’s Court for the first time.
Mokwele’s death, allegedly at the hands of her partner, sent shockwaves through the community last Thursday (July 4) with provincial government officials coming forward to support the family by attending the court case on Monday before visiting them in Lithuli Park where the incident occurred.
The premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba, alongside the MEC for Social Development Florence Radzilani as well as the Capricorn District Municipality mayor Mamedupi Teffo were among those present.
Speaking to the Polokwane Review-Observer, Radzilani said they (provincial government) are devastated by Mokwele’s death.
“We are so touched and that is why we are here. We are here to say we are no longer going to fold our arms as woman under the leadership of Dr Phophi Ramathuba. We will support the family until she is given a proper burial,” she said.
Mokwele, a mother and teacher, was stabbed several times following an altercation with her boyfriend, and died upon arrival at hospital.
“The suspect took the victim’s mother’s vehicle and drove off. The victim then alerted her mother, who called him and insisted that he return the vehicle. The 30-year-old man did as instructed, but a violent altercation followed,” the statement reads.
The case will be heard again on August 18, with the suspect present, where his identity would be made public.
Police confirmed that Mokwele had been stabbed in the upper body several times, before collapsing.
“Following the incident, the suspect attempted to flee the scene, but he was cornered and assaulted by the community. Police rushed to the scene and found him with open wounds and he too was transported to hospital for medical treatment under police guard.”
Safety and Gender-Based Violence awareness groups also supported the family.
Among them were the Lentswe La Ka Foundation led by Maletšema Ramokone who said she hopes the suspect will not be granted bail.
Read more in this week’s Bonus Review.
