Zandile Mafe, an alleged arsonist in Parliament, was denied bail.

By Lola Smith

Published: May 30, 2022 | 7:56 PM GMT

A full panel of the Western Cape High Court in Cape Town has denied bail to alleged Parliament arsonist Zandile Mafe.

Judgement was recently handed down in a divided decision.

Housebreaking with the aim to conduct terrorism, two crimes of arson, and theft are among the charges leveled against Mafe.

After a fire damaged substantial portions of Parliament, he was arrested on January 2.

The bail application appeal was heard again on Monday, after judgement was reserved during a previous court bid last month.

Court proceedings of Monday:

Family shocked by allegations

Mafe is originally from Mahikeng in the North West.

His family are shocked by the allegations that he burnt Parliament down, saying Mafe left home in 2004 and moved to Cape Town.

He had been doing odd jobs there since then.

His brother, Alfred Matiwane, described him as a loner, reserved and polite, adding he would not hurt anyone.

Mafe’s other brother, Zamile Matiwane, was equally upset and said they deserve to be told what led to his arrest.

Mafe’s family speaks out:

About Lola Smith

Lola Smith is a highly experienced writer and journalist with over 25 years of experience in the field. Her special interest lies in journalistic writeups, where she can utilize her skills and knowledge to bring important stories to the public eye. Lola’s dedication to her craft is unparalleled, and she writes with passion and precision, ensuring that her articles are informative, engaging, and thought-provoking. She lives in New York, USA.