Manelisi Mampane, currently applying for bail, is facing serious charges after allegedly opening fire on a group of students, resulting in the death of 22-year-old Sisonke Mbolekwa.

In court, the lead investigator, Colonel Mandla Miya, testified that Mampane had admitted to the shooting and said he was “ready to do the time.” However, Mampane has now pushed back against that statement, saying he never said those words.

The case has drawn national attention, especially from student communities still reeling from the tragedy.

The bail hearing, which has already seen emotional testimony and conflicting accounts, has been postponed to Thursday when final arguments are expected to be presented.

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The incident occurred during a demonstration sparked by dissatisfaction with accommodation provided under the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. The protest escalated when students reportedly confronted Mampane at his on-campus residence and set his vehicle on fire. During the altercation, Mbolekwa was shot and killed, and three other students were injured.

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Due to the sensitive nature of the case, the court barred media from recording the proceedings after the defense argued for privacy. Despite this, the prosecution did not object to media coverage. Outside the courthouse, large crowds of students gathered to protest, calling for the accused to be denied bail.

The university has been gripped by unrest as students raise concerns about the deteriorating conditions in their residences, citing issues such as cracked walls, broken tiles, and damaged ceilings.

In response to the shooting, an independent inquiry led by retired Justice Chris Jafta will investigate the circumstances surrounding Mbolekwa’s death, including possible failings by university officials or students.

Separately, the university attempted to evict protesting students, arguing that the protests had turned violent. However, the Mthatha High Court dismissed the application for eviction, instead issuing an interdict to prevent both removals and further destruction of property. The judge emphasized the importance of protecting student lives while allowing peaceful demonstrations that uphold the institution’s integrity.

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