Thulisile Mapongwana
Former SAA board member Yakhe Kwinana has been granted bail of R2,000 by the East London Magistrate’s Court.
Magistrate Luthando Screetch handed down the ruling on Friday following days of heated arguments between the state and the defence.
Kwinana, who was arrested on March 17, is accused of demolishing houses on her family’s farm near East London Airport, allegedly violating an interim order protecting the residents.
The state had opposed bail, arguing that Kwinana was a flight risk, pointing to her departure from East London on March 4 after the demolitions. They also alleged she had used security guards with high-powered rifles to intimidate residents.
However, the defence maintained that Kwinana was not a flight risk, stating she had voluntarily sent police her location on the day of her arrest. They also argued that she had acted within her legal rights, citing a 2020 High Court eviction order in her family company’s favor.
Somahele, Kwinana’s attorney, accused the state of delaying tactics and misconduct, while the prosecution insisted it needed time to present a comprehensive case.
As part of her bail conditions, Kwinana must report to the police station twice a week and avoid contact with the complainants.
The case will continue as the court prepares for trial.
