Protests came after a group of protesting workers and students and rugby supporters during a Varsity Cup match between the UFS Shimlas and Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University’s (NMMU) Madibas became embroiled in a confrontation on the field. 

Lindiwe Abongile Bakaqa appeared at the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court this morning (Monday) where a trial date was supposed to be set for her, as well as Kgotso Baba.

Machini Motloung, a Legal Aid representative of the students, says they are glad the prosecution agreed to withdraw all charges.

“We consulted with the prosecution team where the prosecution agreed to withdraw the charges unconditionally against the students involved. The other student is now in Turkey. The charges against him were also withdrawn unconditionally. So the matter has now been laid to rest,” he said.

Charges were damage to property and contravening a court order.

A warrant of arrest had been issued for Baba after he failed to appear in the previous court appearance due to the fact that he was already overseas on a scholarship.

Bakaqa returned to court because she had not agreed to the mediation terms of the withdrawal charges last month.

OFM News