Celebrity Dr Nandipha Magudumana is facing a devastating blow as her mother, Nokuzola Sikeleni, passed away on Thursday in Port Shepstone, KwaZulu-Natal, while she remains incarcerated at Bizzah Makhate Correctional Services in the Free State.
Background of the Case
Magudumana was arrested in April 2023 in Arusha, Tanzania, alongside her then partner, convicted murderer and rapist Thabo Bester, for allegedly assisting him to escape from prison in May 2022 after faking his death in a prison cell fire.
According to the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), there is a possibility that Magudumana may receive compassionate leave to attend her mother’s funeral. The DCS website explains the legal framework surrounding such requests, stating that a sentenced offender may 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.
Eligibility for Compassionate Leave
The decision to grant compassionate leave is made on a case-by-case basis, taking into account various factors, including the offender’s risk classification, security concerns, behavioural record, and the nature of the bereavement. Magudumana’s lawyer, Machini Motloung, has urged the authorities to keep her adequately informed about her mother’s passing and the arrangements being made.
Some of the key considerations for granting compassionate leave include:
- Risk classification of the offender
- Security concerns
- Behavioural record of the offender
- Nature of the bereavement
Magudumana’s father, Zolile Sikeleni, has confirmed that arrangements are underway for his wife’s funeral, expressing his deep sorrow that she has passed away while their daughter remains incarcerated.
