Lynn Williams
While the traumatised family and friends of Cheryl Ann Kannemeyer are still battling to come to terms with her death, her husband appeared in the Gqeberha Magistrates Court on Tuesday in connection with her murder.
Colin "Junior" Kannemeyer, 57, allegedly killed his 61-year-old wife at the couple's home in Beetlestone Road two days after Christmas.
According to an initial police report, Cheryl sustained multiple stab wounds to her chest and a laceration to her throat. She had a rope around her neck.
Family and friends of the deceased filled the public gallery and battled to hold back tears as Kannemeyer was formally charged with murder.
He entered the courtroom dressed in baggy pants and a black jersey, clutching a white T-shirt.
His attorney, Lolia Boggenpoel informed the court that Kannemeyer wished to abandon his bid for bail.
The couple's eldest son, Dexter, faced Kannemeyer for the first time since the brutal attack.
He only had one question: " I wanted to know why. Sadly, I left without answers."
Dexter said that they were now pinning their hopes on the justice system to get the answers to their many questions.
"We are gutted. In the blink of an eye, we've lost both a mother and a father.
"If anything, today has just solidified that it is not a dream."
He confirmed that the couple's 35-year marriage was on the rocks and that Cheryl had confided in her children that she was "finally" filing for divorce.
Dexter said he could not confirm whether that had any bearing on the accused's actions.
Before the case was adjourned, Magistrate Vuyo Tshiki granted an order that Kannemeyer be kept at the hospital section of the St. Albans Correctional Centre due to ill health.
Boggenpoel said Kannemeyer suffers from a heart condition and has recently undergone an operation.
She also said that Kannemeyer did not have his medication with him and that he needed to go to the hospital for a scan next week.
As funeral preparations are underway, Cheryl's entire family, moreover her grandchildren, is taking strain.
"We're all dealing with a lot.
"The kids want their Nan (grandmother), and we are having to answer difficult questions from them.
"We're doing our best to keep it together," said Dexter.
He added that his mother will no doubt be remembered for her love for life, her positivity, her love for the Lord, and the love she had for her kids and grandchildren.
"All that I want is justice for my mother."
Kannemeyer's case was postponed to 20 February for further investigation.
State prosecutor Olga de Wet said that amongst others, the police photo album and an autopsy report were still outstanding.
