Zoliswa Nkonyana Murder Trial Press Release

29 September 2009

Monday, 28 September 2009 saw the continuation of the long-running trial of the 9 men accused of murdering Zoliswa Nkonyana in the Khayelitsha on the 4 February 2006. The Triangle Project, coordinating organization of the Western Cape 070707 End Hate Alliance; Emily Craven, national coordinator of the Joint Working Group; local activists; family, friends and supporters packed Court C of the Khayelitsha Magistrates Court to hear testimony of the friend of the deceased, more than 3 and a half years of (sic) giving her statement to the police, and almost a year after first giving testimony on 5 December 2008. The witness, herself being a survivor in the brutal attack on Nkonyana in February 2006, was cross-examined by the 6 defense attorneys in a grueling session which lasted most of the day. Despite attempts by the defense to discredit her as a witness, she remained focused, bold and very brave. She articulated very clearly that they were confronted and victimized because they were out as lesbians and attacked because of their sexual orientation.

The mothers of both the victim and witness were emotional when listening to the testimony and the cross-examination as the events of the night unfolded. After three years of continual postponements, everyone was relieved and anxious that the trial had started. The Department of Public Prosecutions (DPP) was present in court to monitor procedures and reiterated their commitment to ensure due process. The WC 070707 End Hate Alliance raised concerns with the constant postponements and had requested that the trial be moved to the Cape High Court. The DPP then intervened and guaranteed that they would meet with both the State Prosecutor and all defense attorneys to ensure that all parties would be prepared to proceed and that the court roll would be cleared to make the trial a priority.

The trial continues on Wednesday, 30 September till the end of the week to hear forensic and post-mortem evidence. Advocate Currie–Gamwo for the DPP also indicated that a further four days will be set aside in the following week to conclude the trial.

The WC 070707 End Hate Alliance will continue all efforts to ensure that justice for Zoliswa Nkonyana and her family and friends is done. We will continue to advocate for an end to heterosexist, homophobic and violent crimes of hate against all lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered and intersexed persons – particularly against black lesbian women where the intersection of race, gender, sexual orientation, and economic disadvantage continue to marginalize and increase vulnerability of women. We will also continue our efforts to rid society of misogynistic and heterosexist attitudes and behaviour.

Issued by Triangle Project, coordinating organization in the Western Cape 070707 End Hate Alliance
Marlow Valentine
Provincial Convener: WC 070707 End Hate Alliance
0836685935