Two Life Sentences For Rape

The Mthatha Regional Court sentenced Eric Manyinkawu (30), to two life imprisonment terms, for twice raping a 60-year-old woman, on two different occasions. The court ordered the sentence to run consecutively. The victim was in an abusive relationship with Manyinkawu, and they stayed in the same homestead at Zithathele Area, in the district of Libode. The abuse was in many instances reported by the victim to the traditional leader before the rape. On the night of 28 September 2021, Manyinkawu went to the room in which the victim was sleeping, and demanded to have sex with her, but she refused, telling him that she was not feeling well. 

An infuriated Manyinkawu severely assaulted the victim before raping her. On the following day, the victim went to the traditional leader, to report the incident.  The traditional leader referred her to the police, but she was allegedly turned back,and only given a number to call, should he assault her again. On the following day, Manyinkawu violently sexually assaulted the victim again. Afterwards, she managed to sneak out of her bedroom, went outside and called the number she was given bythe police.  Manyinkawu was arrested, still sleeping in the victim’s bedroom.

During the trial, he pleaded not guilty,denying ever having sex with the elderly woman.  However, that was in contradiction to the warning statement he had given to the police, in which he claimed that the victim was the one who initiated sexual intercourse.  Regional Prosecutor, Lindile Dwakaza, led the evidence of the police officer, who took the warning statement, the victim, and the traditional leader.  Their evidence convinced the court that he was guilty as charged.

The court agreed with the Prosecutor’s submission, that Manyinkawu deserved the harshest sentence because not only rape is prevalent in the country, but in this case, the rapist was supposed to protect his elderly girlfriend, instead of abusing her in such a gruesome manner.

Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecution, Barry Madolo, commended the Prosecutor and the investigating team,for ensuring that justice is served for the victim of gender-based violence. 

Issued by:

Luxolo Tyali

NPA Regional Spokesperson

Eastern Cape Division

Tel: 0475012630