A landlord in Eswatini, Lindo Matsebula, has been convicted of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm after attacking his former tenant, Mtfupha, over a shoelace. Matsebula claimed the shoelace was used for witchcraft, leading to the assault. The incident occurred in public, and Mtfupha sustained severe injuries to his head and face. Matsebula was sentenced to eight months imprisonment or a fine of E800.
According to Matsebula, he discovered the shoelace tied to a beam in the house previously occupied by Mtfupha. He consulted and was advised that the shoelace was used for witchcraft, prompting him to assault Mtfupha. However, Mtfupha explained that he used the shoelace as a makeshift hanger since he did not have a wardrobe at the time. The court heard that Matsebula asked Mtfupha about the shoelace and, without waiting for a response, attacked him.
The assault occurred next to a spaza shop, and witnesses did not intervene, reportedly due to fear of Matsebula. Mtfupha testified that he was left with severe injuries, which were documented in a doctor's report. The report was considered by the court during sentencing. Matsebula maintained that he believed the shoelace was associated with witchcraft, citing its many knots and the manner in which it was tied.
Mbabane National Court President, Two Minutes Shongwe, presided over the case and found Matsebula guilty. Shongwe noted that the incident occurred in public, which lowered Mtfupha's self-esteem. The court also considered the nature of the injuries sustained by Mtfupha. Shongwe warned Matsebula against acting on unfounded allegations.
During the sentencing, Shongwe asked Matsebula about his relationship with Mtfupha and how the latter left his house. Matsebula stated that Mtfupha left without informing him. The court ultimately sentenced Matsebula to eight months imprisonment, with the option to pay a fine of E800.
The case highlights the issue of assault and the use of accusations of witchcraft as a justification for violence. The court emphasized that such accusations should not be taken lightly and can have serious consequences. Matsebula's case serves as a reminder of the need for the community to address such issues.
The incident also raises concerns about the prevalence of violence and the role of traditional beliefs in Eswatini. The case will likely have implications for how similar incidents are handled in the future.
Key points
- Lindo Matsebula was sentenced to eight months imprisonment or a fine of E800 for assaulting his former tenant.
- The assault was sparked by a shoelace that Matsebula believed was used for witchcraft.
- The incident highlights the issue of violence and the use of witchcraft accusations in Eswatini.
