MBOMBELA, SOUTH AFRICA – The family of 19-year-old Lusanda Hope Mathabela is struggling to come to terms with her brutal death after she was allegedly murdered by her former boyfriend and his friend inside her home in Mattafin, Mbombela.
Lusanda, daughter of Ligwalagwala FM Siyadvumisa host Given Mathabela, was attacked on 3 November 2025. The tragedy has sent shockwaves across both South Africa and Eswatini, where her father’s programme has a large following.
Her mother, Senzekile Maphalala, told Daily Sun that Lusanda had recently mentioned being stalked by her ex-boyfriend on social media after their breakup. “She never said he was violent, but she did tell me that he was stalking her on Instagram,” said Maphalala.
Her grandmother, Sibongile Mathabela, said the family was heartbroken that the accused were seeking bail. “What is disgusting is that they even want bail, claiming one of them is a Grade 12 learner who has exams to write. His life continues while our granddaughter’s life was cut short. These boys must receive harsher punishment to deter others who might do the same,” she said.
A close friend, Francica Mangueze, described Lusanda as a warm and loving person whose life was filled with potential. “I was shocked to learn that the people arrested for her murder were known to us. They were supposed to protect us, not harm her,” said Francica.
Her father, Given Mathabela, shared a deeply emotional message online, describing his daughter as “a light that will never fade.” “My heart feels like it has been torn out of my chest. You didn’t deserve to die like this. You deserved safety, peace, and happiness,” he wrote.
He called on the public to light candles in memory of Lusanda and all victims of gender-based violence. “No parent should have to cry the tears I’m crying. Lusanda was murdered inside our house. Where must our little girls run to now?” he said.
Funeral arrangements for Lusanda will take place on Saturday, 8 November 2025, at the Alliance Church of South Africa in Kanyamazane, beginning at 7:00 AM. The family has expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support and prayers received during this painful period.
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