The case against Stephen Songezo (42), who is accused of murdering his girlfriend, Mpho Moalosi, has been postponed once again. She was a teacher at the Tsoseletso High School. 

Songezo appeared in the Bloemfontein Magistrate's Court on Wednesday (25/9), where his case was postponed to 2 October to allow for arrangements regarding his formal bail application.

Moalosi was killed on Dewetsdorp Road when Songezo allegedly ran over her body with her vehicle. Initially, Songezo had indicated that he did not intend to apply for bail. However, during his previous court appearance, he informed his legal team of his decision to pursue bail.

The state prosecutor confirmed both parties had agreed to a postponement until 10 October to allow Songezo's legal team time for consultations before formally applying for bail. The magistrate provisionally postponed the matter to 2 October to confirm the defence's readiness for the bail application on 10 October.

This case has sparked significant public outrage, as it highlights the ongoing issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the Free State. Many residents, including representatives from churches, various organisations, and officials from the Mangaung Metro, have been attending court proceedings in protest against GBV.

Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae, a vocal advocate for women’s rights, has led GBV marches during the court appearances of alleged perpetrators. Letsoha-Mathae has consistently expressed concern over the alarming rate of femicide in the province, pledging the government’s commitment to combating GBV through education, law enforcement, community activism, and support for survivors.

Letsoha-Mathae emphasised the importance of continuing efforts to provide counselling, empowerment, and shelters for victims, urging communities to remain vigilant and united in the fight against GBV.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi dg