THE 33-year-old man accused of the kidnap, rape and murder of Zanokuhle Khumalo (7) on 29 July at Makhaye Village outside Empangeni has pleaded guilty on all counts.

The news emerged from Mtubatuba High Court today (Thursday), where the trial is taking place.

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After early appearances by the accused, the case was moved from Empangeni Magistrate’s Court to Mtubatuba High Court to the dismay of Zanokuhle’s family who said it would be costly to travel.

The case has been in the spotlight as South Africa is set to observe the annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence next month.

On 10 October, protesters gathered outside the Mtubatuba court precinct, waving placards containing anti-GBV messages, and baying for blood as they called for no bail for the accused.

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