The Mutale Magistrate's Court was packed to capacity on Tuesday, 2 December, for the appearance of murder accused Andani Madzhie.
The 27-year-old from Tswinga stands accused of killing teacher Innocentia Ndinainwi Mabuke, a rape victim in a case involving the controversial, self-proclaimed pastor/prophet Innocent Muritho, better known as Ritha. Mabuke was shot dead at Thengwe Matshetshete a month ago.
At his first appearance last week, Madzhie requested a private lawyer and subsequently brought one to court. During a brief hearing on Tuesday, his case was postponed to 9 December for a formal bail application.
Outside the court, a large group of community members opposed to his being granted bail had gathered. They expressed support of the suspect's remaining in custody.
Bennedict Nalana of Limpopo Human Rights for All, an organisation that has been vocal about the case, said: "We have mobilised communities from all over Vhembe to speak with one voice and say no to bail for the killer. As a community, we are tired of these senseless killings. We are here to demand justice for Mabuke. We believe that if he is released on bail, the case will be compromised and justice will not be served."
The 26-year-old Mabuke had attended an all-night prayer at the local House of Cana Ministries, ironically led by Prophet Rolindela, a close friend of Prophet Muritho. She was about to board a taxi when she was shot at close range. A 55-year-old taxi driver and a 69-year-old woman were also wounded in the attack.
Her murder occurred just days before she was scheduled to testify against Ritha in a rape case she had reported in Cape Town. Many believe her killing was connected to this case.
It has also emerged that Madzhie is closely associated with Ritha and that they had lived together in Tswinga.