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Sibonelo Prince Sikhakhane, a former teacher’s assistant, prepares to face 25 years imprisonment for his role in the murder of a former Nongoma high school principal. This follows Sikhakhane feeling overworked and pressured by the former principal, resorting to violence to remedy the issue.
Discussing the legal proceedings, KZN Spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Natasha Kara explained that the Pietermaritzburg High Court sentenced Sibonelo Prince Sikhakhane, and his accomplice Philani Clifford Ntuli, to 25 years and 15 years imprisonment respectively, after they pleaded guilty to the murder and robbery of Muziwakhe Zephroid Sibiya, in February 2022.
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“In his plea, Sikhakhane said that he was overworked and pressured at work and blamed Sibiya for this. He eventually decided to resign, and also plan revenge on Sibiya by killing him. For this reason, he enlisted the assistance of Ntuli, who was his friend,” explained Kara.
On the day of the offence, Kara said that Sikhakhane phoned Sibiya, asking for a lift to Nongoma.
“Sibiya agreed and fetched him along with Ntuli. They were armed with a firearm. While on the R66 Main Road, Sikhakhane said he needed to urinate and asked that Sibiya stop on the side of the road. While Sikhakhane got out of the car, Ntuli produced the firearm and fatally shot Sibiya in the chest. They stole his cellphone, tablet and laptop and fled on foot.”
In court, Senior State Advocate Mbongeni Mthembu handed a Victim Impact Statement, facilitated by Court Preparation Officer, Sithole Bhekithemba Hopewell and compiled by Sibiya’s brother.
Kara stated, “In his statement, he said that Sibiya was a good person and the family relied on him, as he had a stable government job. They are now adversely affected by his death. The family misses him and they have all undergone counselling.”
In sentencing Sikhakhane and Ntuli for murder, Kara highlighted that the court deviated from the minimum sentence of life imprisonment because the two men had no previous or pending cases.
“The court also found them to be remorseful for their actions and eligible candidates for rehabilitation. They will serve an effective 25 years’ imprisonment as the sentences will run concurrently,” concluded Kara.
However, she said the NPA welcomed the swift finalisation of the matter and commended the work done by the Prosecutor and the Investigating team.
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