Celebrity Dr Nandipha Magudumana is mourning the passing of her mother, Nokuzola Sikeleni after she died on Thursday in Port Shepstone, KwaZulu-Natal.
This is a devastating blow to Magudumana, who is currently awaiting trial at Bizzah Makhate Correctional Services in the Free State.
Speaking to Sunday World, Zolile Sikeleni, Magudumana’s father, confirmed that arrangements are underway for his wife’s funeral, expressing his deep sorrow that she has passed away while their daughter remains incarcerated.
Meanwhile, her lawyer, Machini Motloung, told the publication that he has taken steps to ensure that his client receives psychological support during this traumatic period. He has also urged the authorities to keep her adequately informed about her mother’s passing and the arrangements being made.
According to Singabakho Nxumalo, spokesperson for the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), there is a possibility that Magudumana may receive compassionate leave to attend her mother’s funeral.
Nxumalo said the DCS assists offenders who experience bereavement in their immediate family by allowing them to apply for temporary release.
He explained the legal framework surrounding such requests: “In terms of the Correctional Services Act, 1998 (Act No. 111 of 1998), Section 44(1)(a) provides that a sentenced offender may, subject to prescribed conditions, be allowed to leave the correctional centre for a period determined by the National Commissioner in order to maintain family ties or for other humane purposes.”
Nxumalo further explained that each application for compassionate leave is assessed meticulously, taking into consideration various factors, including the offender’s risk classification, security concerns, behavioural record, and the nature of the bereavement.
He said the process is designed to uphold humane treatment while ensuring the safety and security of both the correctional system and the broader community.
Magudumana was arrested in April 2023 in Arusha, Tanzania, alongside her then partner, convicted murderer and rapist Thabo Bester.
She is accused of assisting Bester to escape from prison in May 2022 after faking his death in a prison cell fire. They have been in custody since their arrest.
