Nandipha Magudumana is grieving the loss of her mother, Nokuzola Sekeleni, who died on Thursday, 26 March at her residence in Port Shepstone, KwaZulu-Natal.
The former aesthetics doctor, currently held at the Bizzah Makhate Correctional Centre, was notified of the tragic news by prison officials and social workers.
Her family has reported that she was deeply affected as she begins to come to terms with the loss while incarcerated.
Her brother, Nkosinathi Sekeleni, spoke on behalf of the family, detailing the emotional impact of the news on her.
“[She] was informed by the prison authorities and social workers about our mother’s passing. She was taken aback when she heard the news. She is trying to come to terms with the loss of our mother, and we are hopeful that she will remain strong despite the pain.
“We are also planning to apply for her to attend our mother’s funeral. We hope that our request will be granted.”
Her father, Zolile Sekeleni, confirmed that arrangements for the funeral are in progress, expressing sorrow that his wife passed away while their daughter remains behind bars.
Magudumana’s attorney, Machini Motloung, is working to ensure she receives psychological assistance during this difficult time and has urged the authorities to keep her informed about the funeral proceedings.
According to Singabakho Nxumalo, a spokesperson for the Department of Correctional Services, inmates in similar situations can request temporary release under specific conditions.
“As stated in the Correctional Services Act, 1998 (Act No. 111 of 1998), Section 44(1)(a) permits a sentenced offender to leave the correctional facility for a designated period to maintain family ties or for other compassionate reasons, subject to certain conditions,” he said.
He further mentioned that each application is evaluated based on factors such as security classification, behavior, and the circumstances surrounding the bereavement, ensuring a balance between compassion and public safety.
This loss occurs as Magudumana is set to face trial alongside convicted criminal Thabo Bester regarding the notable 2022 prison escape.
She is facing multiple charges, including fraud, corruption, money laundering, arson, and aiding Bester in his escape after he supposedly staged his death in a cell fire.
As her legal challenges intensify, Magudumana is also confronting a significant personal loss, with her family advocating for her to be allowed to attend her mother’s funeral.
