Protesters show support for complainant in Komani court case

Dozens of women gathered outside the Komani Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 30 April 2026, demanding justice as a local doctor appeared on a charge of rape. The case was postponed to 10 June 2026 for a hearing in the regional court.

The accused, , made headlines recently after allegations emerged that he raped a woman in his surgery.

He was granted a R5000 bail in February this year after appearing in court.

He appeared briefly in the packed Magistrate’s Court on Thursday morning while protesters assembled outside the building.

Carrying placards and chanting, the group said they were there to support the complainant and to highlight broader concerns about gender-based violence in the area.

Human rights activist Yolanda Gcanga addressed supporters outside court, saying the postponement would not deter their efforts.

“We are happy as much as the case is postponed to June 10, we are happy that the doctor is appearing in court,” Gcanga said. “We want the victim to know she is not alone.”

Gcanga called on other activists and residents of Komani to attend the next court date and show solidarity.

“This is about more than one case. It is about sending a message that survivors will be supported,” she added.

The court has not yet heard a plea from the doctor.

Details of the allegations were not tested in court on Thursday, as the matter was rolled over for the regional court process.

The case has sparked strong public reaction in Komani since the accusations became public.

Local organisations working on gender-based violence say they will continue to follow proceedings closely.

The regional court is expected to set the course for trial on 10 June 2026.