Bonginkosi Khanyile, a member of the uMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP) and former student activist, was arrested on Tuesday after failing to appear for his trial related to the violent unrest that shook South Africa in July 2021. Khanyile’s non-appearance triggered an arrest warrant and led to the provisional cancellation of his bail, which could be officially forfeited by March 17, 2025.
In a video recorded while in jail, Khanyile addressed his supporters and explained his actions during the unrest, which left 354 people dead. He maintained that the violence was a form of protest against the perceived injustice surrounding the arrest of former President Jacob Zuma. Khanyile described their efforts as a campaign for justice, emphasizing that they had fought against the unjust treatment of Zuma.
“I am strong. What we did in the July unrest was to campaign for the law to be used in a just manner. We were fighting against Zuma’s unjust treatment,” he said in the video, reinforcing that his commitment to the cause remains unwavering, regardless of legal challenges.
Khanyile’s legal team, including support from MKP members and Zuma’s associates, has provided him with ongoing counsel. However, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Natasha Ramkisson-Kara revealed that Khanyile’s attorney was unable to locate him ahead of his scheduled court appearance. Consequently, the trial was postponed, and Khanyile’s bail was provisionally revoked.
An arrest warrant was issued, and Khanyile was apprehended early on March 4, 2025. Following his arrest, he appeared in court the same day, where a bail enquiry was scheduled for March 5.
