POLOKWANE – Over two years have passed since Phuti Mamabolo was run over and killed, reportedly by her partner, in Zone 6, Seshego.
Yet, the suspect in the crime, Solly Galane, has yet to be tried, as the case continues to face repeated postponements, leaving the victim’s family and advocacy groups frustrated.
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The most recent delay occurred on Friday in the Polokwane High Court, marking the third postponement since July 29, when the trial was originally scheduled to commence. This time, the postponement was attributed to the presiding judge’s attendance at the opening of the seventh Limpopo Legislature.
As a result, Galane remains in custody, with the trial now expected to begin from December 2-6.
He faces charges for the murder of Mamabolo, which occurred in June 2022.
The continued delays have drawn criticism from both Mamabolo’s family and the Lentswe Laka Foundation (LLF), an advocacy group supporting the family.
In a statement, LLF expressed deep concern over the repeated postponements.
“Each postponement is a painful reminder of the challenges victims’ families face in their pursuit of justice. ‘Justice delayed is justice denied’ is not just a saying but a harsh reality for the Mamabolo family, who have endured repeated setbacks in court proceedings. These delays prolong their suffering and undermine public confidence in a judicial system that is supposed to protect and serve,” LLF stated.
The trial has faced multiple setbacks, including one on July 29, when Galane’s new legal counsel requested additional time to familiarise themselves with the case. They also sought an extension due to the recent death of Galane’s grandmother, arguing that the accused was not in a fit state to stand trial. Days earlier, the proceedings were postponed because the courtroom was occupied by another ongoing trial.
As the trial date is pushed further back, the Mamabolo family continues to wait for justice, with their patience and faith in the judicial process increasingly tested.
