DURBAN - ANC councillor Mzwandile Shandu and his nephew, Mlondisi Shandu, who are accused of the alleged attempted murder of two family members in Mid-Illovo in August last year, were remanded in custody on Wednesday.
The duo appeared at the uMlazi Magistrate’s Court, where they revealed their intention to plead not guilty on charges of attempted murder.
The attacks have been linked to pervasive political infighting within the ANC at the Mkhambathini Local Municipality’s ward 7.
Through his lawyer, Shandu pleaded his innocence, urging the court to grant bail in the interests of justice.
“It is my contention that I am innocent until proven guilty, and I therefore plead with the court to grant me bail. The incident happened in August and I was arrested on December 29, meaning the alleged victims had co-existed with me for over three months without any other incidents.
“I have also complied with the investigation since my arrest last year. And it is my intention to continue without interfering with the witnesses,” said Shandu.
The ANC councillor said the charges were a ploy to tarnish his good image in the community.
“I am a family man with four children who depend on me being employed. I am also a councillor for the community I reside in. All this considered, I have done everything with accordance to section 16 to qualify for bail, as these charges are manufactured to tarnish my good image with the people. My plea is also for the court to grant bail of R1 000, which is the amount I can afford at this stage. I am also willing to accept whatever bail conditions the court imposes on me in the event that bail is granted.”
Meanwhile, Mlondisi Shandu argued he would be greatly disadvantaged in the community should he be denied bail.
“My bail application is so that I can work closely with the investigators and the defence to prove my innocence.”
The case was adjourned to Friday, with both suspects remaining behind bars.
Daily News