It was another long day at the Scottburgh Magistrate’s Court on September 25, where Sbonelo Senzo Gumede (29) of Amandawe appeared in connection with the murder of Nokuphila Mbhele (28) of KwaMadlala.

Gumede still maintains that he does not want the media taking photos or videos of him during court proceedings.

At his first court appearance in June this year, all parties agreed the media could take photos and videos, but Gumede and his lawyer are opposing this.

However, at the most recent appearance, the court asked the media to appear with their legal representatives to explain why it was important to show Gumede’s face to the public.

The case was postponed to October 21 for the court’s decision on the media issue and for Gumede to plead. His plea was postponed because the State Prosecutor was unhappy with some information in his statement.

Gumede shot dead Mbhele, who is also the mother of his child, then turned the gun on himself but survived, in March 2025.

The victim’s mother, Sthembile Mbhele, said the case has gone on for too long and it’s costing her money to go to court.

“It feels like Sbonelo’s emotions are being nursed by the court, whereas we, as a family, are not even considered.”

She added that the case should be at trial and not postponed.

“Every time I come here, I am reminded of the pain, and it feels like it happened yesterday.”

The victim’s grandmother, Agnes Mbhele, said she feels disheartened.

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