MZWANDILE Mkhize has escaped dire consequences despite being found guilty murder after he stabbed Sizwe Zungu to death last year.
In January 2015, Mkhize and Zungu, who were close friends, were drinking with a group of friends at the Mkhize household in Bomvini reserve, Ngwelezane, when a scuffle broke out between the two.
Witnesses testified in court that the 30-year-old had allegedly interfered with Zungu’s girlfriend shortly before the fight, saying he went as far as biting her on the arm.
The fight was separated, but Mkhize returned a short while later, fought his way up to Zungu and stabbed him in the chest.
Witnesses said Zungu collapsed on the spot.
He was rushed to Ngwelezana Hospital, and declared dead a short while later.
State Prosecution pushed for direct imprisonment in the matter, requesting the minimum sentence of 15 years.
However, Attorney Johan van der Westhuizen fought for a lesser sentence, believing there was substantial and compelling reasons for the court to deviate.
During his sentencing at the Empangeni Regional Court on 29 April, acting regional magistrate Mkhwanazi considered the relationship between the victim, accused and their families in her ruling, choosing to be lenient by granting the full 15 years but wholly suspending the sentence, effectively keeping Mkhize out of prison.
