Petition Adds Pressure As Mdantsane Awaits Answers In Zolani Tete Murder case

A petition calling for bail to be opposed for the men accused of murdering former world champion boxer Zolani “Last Born” Tete has gained significant public support, adding another layer to a case that has gripped Mdantsane.

Launched by Mlandeli Tengimfene, Tete’s manager of many years on September 2, the petition had attracted more than 1,720 signatures by yesterday (September 10) with its author calling on authorities to oppose bail and ensure that justice is served.

The Coastal has taken a closer look at the case as the bail proceedings reached a crucial stage this week. Four men are before the Mdantsane Magistrates’ Court following Tete’s fatal shooting on the driveway of his NU17, Mdantsane home, on August 21.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority, Siphesihle Kolisa, Athandwa Gangala, Sinebongo Qase and Uzuzole Goqwana are accused in connection with the killing and the attempted murder of Tete’s girlfriend. The State alleges that the murder was premeditated and that is why it has vigorously opposed bail. Kolisa and Gangala have abandoned their bail applications, while Qase and Goqwana pursued formal bail proceedings.

On Wednesday, September 9, the Mdantsane Magistrates’ Court reserved judgment in the bail applications of Qase and Goqwana. The two are expected to learn their fate on Monday.

The case has also drawn attention beyond the courtroom, with the petition reflecting the strength of public feeling around Tete’s death. Tengimfene, the initiator and author, says the family is “devastated by his brutal and senseless murder” and is calling on authorities to oppose bail.

The petition further calls on supporters to “stand with our family as we fight for justice for ZOLANI.”

What makes the case particularly significant locally is who Tete was to Mdantsane. Before becoming a two-division world champion and gaining international recognition, Tete was a product of the township’s boxing culture. His death therefore represents not only the loss of a celebrated athlete, but the killing of a familiar local figure whose success carried Mdantsane onto the world stage.

Tete won the IBF junior-bantamweight world title in 2014 and later became WBO bantamweight champion. He was also known internationally for recording one of boxing’s fastest title-fight knockouts when he stopped Siboniso Gonya in 11 seconds in 2017.

The case moved quickly after the shooting. The NPA says Goqwana was arrested on August 22, while Kolisa and Gangala were arrested the following day in Scenery Park, on the outskirts of KuGompo City (formally East London). Qase was arrested on August 24, bringing the number of accused to four.

One of those who have signed the petition is Nonhle Harland: “Justice must be served for the brutal killing of Zolani. We demand justice and accountability. No bail for the killers,” she wrote. Kevin Luiters, who signed the petition from Paris, France, added: “I believe in Zolani innocence and the law should bare the most weight on this irresponsible acts of youth”

For Tete’s family, friends and supporters, the question now is not only who will ultimately be held responsible, but whether the justice system will ensure that those accused remain before the courts to face the allegations against them.

The accused have not been convicted and remain presumed innocent until proven guilty. You can click here to see or sign the petition.