“Murder Charges: Skeem Saam Actor’s Father Faces Third Bail Hearing”

William Manku, father of *Skeem Saam* actress Amanda Manku, appeared in the Lebowakgomo Magistrates Court for the third time as he continues his fight for bail. Arrested in January 2024, alongside his co-accused David Khoza, Manku faces charges related to the murders of his wife, Gladys, and his mother-in-law, Letty Maphothoma. In this latest bail application, Manku’s new legal team argued for his release, citing new facts and personal responsibilities.

#### New Legal Representation

Manku returned to court with new legal representation, as his lawyer, Phaladi Kanyane, addressed the court on the fresh developments surrounding the case. Kanyane explained that his client needed to be released on bail to fulfill his role as the primary caregiver to his children, including a mentally unfit son. According to Manku’s affidavit, his son’s condition has worsened due to a lack of medical attention, and his children often rely on neighbors for basic needs.

“My children sometimes depend on neighbors for handouts. My son’s health is deteriorating,” the affidavit read, pleading for Manku’s release on compassionate grounds.

#### Opposition from the Investigating Officer

Despite these claims, the investigating officer strongly opposed Manku’s bail request. During her testimony, she argued that Manku’s appeal to take care of his children lacked sincerity, emphasizing his failure to provide for them in the past. Becoming visibly emotional, she stated, “He mustn’t come and claim that he loves his children when he never showed them love. He failed his kids and mustn’t come and say that he wants to be released so that he can take care of his children.”

Furthermore, the officer revealed that Manku was due to attend a disciplinary hearing at his workplace but failed to show up, with the court later discovering that he had resigned with the assistance of his former legal representative.

#### The Role of Amanda Manku

In addition to the prosecution’s opposition to Manku’s bail, his daughter, Amanda Manku, who is known for her role in the popular TV drama *Skeem Saam*, has reportedly severed ties with her father. According to Kanyane, Amanda is not on speaking terms with her father and has been taking care of her siblings, including paying for her sister’s school fees and supporting her mentally unfit brother. Kanyane argued that Amanda’s negative feelings towards her father were influencing her stance on the bail hearing, stating, “She fed you with lies and now makes it a fact and tells this court that it is facts.”

#### The State’s Stance

State prosecutor Prince Mola asserted that Manku’s latest bail application presented no new substantial facts, making the case for bail weak. Mola noted that the court had denied Manku bail on two previous occasions for similar reasons. “The applicant was denied bail the first time with the same facts, as well as the second time,” Mola said, reinforcing the prosecution’s opposition to the bail request.

#### Judgment Postponed

The magistrate postponed the case to October 17 for a ruling on the bail application, leaving Manku and Khoza to await their fate in the interim. Meanwhile, the investigating officer confirmed that the trial date for the case has been set for January 2025 in the Polokwane High Court.

Although Amanda Manku was present in court, she left early and was unavailable for comment. As the legal process continues, all eyes remain on the upcoming decision that could determine William Manku’s immediate future.