CACADU- The long-awaited trial of a former Transkei Security Branch member accused of the 1985 murder of anti-apartheid activist Bathandwa Ndondo is set to commence in the Mthatha High Court, sitting as the Cacadu Circuit Court, on Tuesday.
The accused, 68-year-old Gcinisiko Lamont Dandala, will stand trial from 21 to 31 July 2026 on charges linked to Ndondo’s death during the apartheid era.
The Eastern Cape Acting Director of Public Prosecutions Advocate Samkelo Callaway Mntwana decided that the matter should be heard at the Cacadu Circuit Court to enable members of surrounding communities to attend the proceedings more easily.
Ndondo was killed on 24 September 1985 and his case remains one of several unresolved killings of anti-apartheid activists allegedly carried out by apartheid security forces and their collaborators.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) in the Eastern Cape, Dandala previously applied for amnesty before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), but his application was refused. In his amnesty application, he claimed Ndondo was shot because the officers feared they would themselves be killed by Askaris if they disobeyed orders.
The State alleges that Dandala, together with another Security Branch officer and two Askaris all of whom have since died acted on instructions from the then Transkei homeland government to arrest Ndondo.
Furthmore, Prosecutors say the group travelled to Ndondo’s home in Cala Village in a combi on the day of the incident, where they allegedly found him in the company of the late anti-apartheid activist Thobile Bam.
Ndondo was allegedly taken from the house after those present were informed that he was being transported to Cala Police Station for questioning.
According to witness statements, while the vehicle was travelling through Cala Village, Ndondo who was shirtless, attempted to escape through a window. He reportedly fell from the moving vehicle and fled on foot.
In addition the State alleges that Dandala and his co-perpetrators gave chase and opened fire. Ndondo is said to have run into a nearby homestead, where he collapsed after being shot. Prosecutors further allege that additional shots were fired before he was placed back into the combi.
He was then transported to Cala Police Station before being taken to hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
The NPA says it hopes the trial will ultimately secure a conviction and provide long-awaited justice and closure for the Ndondo family, while contributing to the country’s continued efforts to hold those responsible for unresolved apartheid-era crimes accountable.
The trial is expected to run until 31 July 2026.
Photograph: CALUSA
By: Amahle July
20 July 2026
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