Sandile Mbatha, a primary school teacher accused of murdering two young men, Tshidiso Ramatlo and Katleho Letseli, is set to appear in the Johannesburg High Court on Tuesday, 19 November. The trial, which has drawn significant attention, revolves around the deaths of Ramatlo and Letseli in January 2023, after they were allegedly accused of stealing VW Polo lights in Diepkloof, Soweto.
The case had previously been postponed when Mbatha claimed he was unwell and required medical attention. Last Thursday, the second witness was scheduled to take the stand, followed by Mbatha. However, the proceedings were delayed again when Mbatha’s defence attorney, Advocate Simane, requested a further postponement. He cited Mbatha’s reported illness, which included a running stomach and a severe headache, as the reason for his inability to testify.
Tshidiso’s mother, Lillian Ramatlo, expressed her frustration, suggesting that Mbatha had been intimidated upon seeing the second witness and was now realizing the gravity of the case. “When he saw the second witness, he got scared and now understands that this case is serious,” she said.
Petunia Letseli, Katleho’s mother, remains resolute in her belief that her son and his friend are fighting for justice from beyond the grave. “I believe they are fighting for justice from their graves, and justice will be served,” she stated, holding on to the hope that the truth will ultimately prevail.
The court has made it clear that the second witness must appear on Tuesday, while Mbatha has been instructed to provide a doctor’s note to verify his condition. As the trial continues, both families and the public are awaiting answers, with a strong sense of determination for justice to be done.
