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The Mamelodi cousins’ tragedy has taken yet another emotional turn — this time, not in the courtroom, but on social media.
As the alleged killer of Tshiamo (22) and Baleseng Moramaga (21) made his second court appearance this week, South Africans were left debating one question: “How can a woman represent a man accused of killing two young women?”
The question came from a viral Facebook post that quickly drew hundreds of heated comments. Some users expressed outrage that a female lawyer would stand by a man accused of such brutality, while others defended the principle of law — that everyone, no matter how horrific their alleged crime, has the right to legal representation.
Social Media Divided
One user, Ivers Dmb Grivers, posted, “When your brain is constantly on airplane mode, silence is the best option,” referring to those judging the lawyer without understanding her role.
Another, Tebogo Tebo, wrote bluntly, “It’s crazy until you become broke,” hinting that people forget how legal aid works until they need it themselves.
Nurse Nonqaba Sedumedi added a powerful perspective:
“So if he came to any local clinic under police custody, as a nurse, should I deny him health care? What he did was inhumane, but if we start approaching justice like this, then we’re all criminals. The law must take its course, and justice must prevail.”
Many echoed similar sentiments. Keletlhokile Garvin said, “Her representing him doesn’t make him not guilty. She’s on duty, nje.”
Yanga Mahlwabi added, “Even if he did the crime, he has a right to be represented. Let the court hear his side and deliver justice.”
Some, like Sandile Msanda, drew comparisons to other professions:
“It’s called work. I was also baffled by men who are gynecologists — working with women every day without issues. Then I realized, it’s work.”
Others, however, couldn’t hide their anger. One user commented, “A woman defending a man who killed women? The irony is too much.” Another wrote, “There are things money shouldn’t make you do.”
“Allegedly” — The Key Word
Several users reminded the public that the suspect, Tebogo Mnisi, has not yet been convicted.
Sboniso Noble Ngubane wrote, “The key word there is ‘allegedly’. After that, there’s no argument.”
Lindokuhle MakaMondeh added, “Haven’t you heard of innocent until proven guilty?”
For others, this simple reminder of due process was enough to shift perspective.
What the Law Says
Under South African law, every accused person — no matter the crime — has a constitutional right to a fair trial and legal representation.
Section 35(3)(f) of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa clearly states:
“Every accused person has the right to choose, and be represented by, a legal practitioner, and to be informed of this right promptly.”
If an accused cannot afford a lawyer, the state provides one through Legal Aid South Africa, ensuring that even the poorest citizens receive a fair defence.
This is not about defending the crime — it’s about protecting the integrity of the justice system. Without legal representation, trials risk becoming one-sided, leading to wrongful convictions or miscarriages of justice.
As one law lecturer from the University of Pretoria explained in a recent interview:
“A lawyer’s role is not to condone a crime, but to ensure that justice follows due process. A fair trial benefits not just the accused, but society at large.”
Legal Duty vs. Moral Judgment
The female lawyer representing Mnisi is a Legal Aid attorney, meaning she is assigned by the state — not chosen by the accused.
This distinction is important. Legal Aid attorneys don’t get to pick and choose cases; they are appointed to ensure access to justice.
As one Facebook user, Mohautsey Nathasha, pointed out:
“Moss, she’s on duty maar 😢😕… and I’m sure she’s the state attorney.”
Another added, “Wouldn’t you represent your brother if you were a lawyer?”
The Bigger Picture
While emotions remain raw following the brutal deaths of the Moramaga cousins, the law requires that every case — no matter how shocking — be treated with fairness.
As one commenter summed up:
“Work is work. Painful as it is, someone has to stand in court — that’s how justice works.”
Still, the public’s emotional response reflects the nation’s growing frustration with gender-based violence and a legal system often seen as too lenient on perpetrators.
Courage Carjo Vashiko wrote poignantly, “The real meaning of being a lawyer will be seen in this case.”
Justice and Emotion
In the end, the conversation exposes the tension between moral outrage and constitutional principles. South Africans are mourning yet another tragedy — and while the law demands neutrality, society demands accountability.
Whether the tears seen in court were of guilt or regret, one truth remains: justice in South Africa must be blind — not to emotion, but to bias.
As one user wrote simply:
“She’s working, shem. The law must do its job.”
