The second accused in the murder of KwaZulu-Natal historian David Rattray appeared briefly in the Dundee Magistrate’s Court on Friday.
Simphiwe Ndlovu (25) was remanded in custody until February 20 for a pending bail application.
The small courtroom was packed with curious locals and media representatives waiting to see the face of the accused for the first time.
During his first appearance last week, Ndlovu was covered in a blanket as an identity parade was yet to be held.
On Friday, a barefoot Ndlovu entered the courtroom without hiding his face, wearing army fatigue-style trousers.
He appeared composed as he sat staring at his hand-cuffed hands.
A business partner of Rattray, Emanuel Mkhize of Rorke’s Drift, and a close friend, Belinda Stilles, were also in court.
Local mayor Thandeka Nukani also made an appearance, telling reporters she would ”miss David as he did a lot for the community”.
The accused was represented by Legal Aid Board attorney Ferose Khan and the state by Sandra Klopper. The presiding officer was magistrate Vivian Hlatshwayo.
On Monday of this week, a member of the gang that murdered Rattray was sentenced to 25 years in jail by Judge Jan Hugo in the Pietermaritzburg High Court.
Fethe Nkwanyana (23) pleaded guilty to the crime.
Hugo found circumstances which enabled him to impose a lesser sentence than the prescribed life in jail for murder, but nevertheless ordered that Nkwanyana serve 18 years before being considered for parole. — Sapa