Bonginkosi Khanyile challenges video evidence in unrest case

In a dramatic twist within the ongoing legal proceedings stemming from the July 2021 unrest, Bonginkosi Khanyile, a prominent political figure, has firmly disputed the timeline of a video in which he addresses his supporters amidst widespread chaos.

Khanyile returned to the Durban High Court where he testified that he regularly communicated with Jacob Zuma's daughter Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla via WhatsApp.

On Tuesday, during cross-examination, the youth leader in the MK Party faced accusations of deliberately misleading the court regarding the timing of his inflammatory speeches calling for continued protests until Zuma's release.

The former Fees Must Fall activist is charged with incitement to commit public violence and the contravention of the Disaster Management Act linked to the July 2021 unrest.

He is also faced with contravening Covid-19 regulations, both of which stem from actions taken during the unrest that left the nation reeling.

During official court proceedings, Khanyile asserted that the unrest had already commenced by the time he made his remarks to the crowd, a point he believes is critical in establishing his defence.

“When I spoke to the people, the violence was already happening. I was not instigating; I was responding to a situation that was unfolding,” Khanyile declared, seeking to clarify his intentions and character in a turbulent time for South Africa.

The unrest, characterised by looting, violence, and civil disorder, sparked nationwide debates about governance and accountability. With his trial set against the backdrop of a society still grappling with the ramifications of these events, Khanyile’s statements in court reflect a larger discourse about leadership and responsibility in moments of crisis.

Khanyile said that the recordings occurred between 18 and 26 July 2021.

The widespread unrest stemming from the arrest of former President Jacob Zuma in July 2021 resulted in untold damage to business, livelihoods and infrastructure.

Zuma was jailed for contempt of court after refusing to comply with an order from the Constitutional Court. At the time, Khanyile was among those who publicly supported Mr Zuma, addressing crowds during protests in KwaZulu-Natal.