Luyanda Botha Faces Court Again: Denies Allegations in 2014 Attempted Rape Case

In a controversial appearance at the Wynberg Magistrates Court, convicted killer and rapist Luyanda Botha stood firm as he denied all allegations in the attempted rape case dating back nearly a decade. Botha, currently serving a life sentence for the brutal rape and murder of UCT student Uyinene Mrwetyana in 2019, faces charges once again, this time for a 2014 incident involving a nursing student.

The proceedings, under the close eye of the public and media, unfolded as Botha took to the stand, eloquently recounting his version of events from that day in June 2014 at the Athlone Nursing College. His testimony painted a different scene than the violent altercation alleged by the prosecution.

According to the State, Botha's actions were heinous; he is accused of physically and sexually assaulting a 21-year-old woman in the shower room of the college. Prosecutors claim Botha punched, choked, and kicked the complainant before attempting to rape her. These are charges that Botha firmly repudiated during his court appearance.

His narrative diverged significantly from that of the prosecution. Botha claimed his visit to the college was to address suspicions of his girlfriend's infidelity with another female student. As the encounter with the complainant escalated, he insisted his intentions were purely to defuse the situation, countering allegations of violence. He continued, stating that as the woman began screaming, he chose to flee the premises, negating any attempts of sexual assault.

This high-profile case has undoubtedly cast a shadow over Botha and raised significant concerns about safety in educational institutions. As Botha adamantly stands by his denial, the legal battle ensuing promises to be extensive. The next hearing is scheduled for 28 August, where further examination of the evidence and witness testimonies are anticipated.

The outcome of this case is yet to be determined, and it contributes to a critical dialogue surrounding issues of gender-based violence in South Africa. Botha's past conviction for the murder of Mrwetyana has already placed him in the limelight, and this case only intensifies the scrutiny of his character and alleged crimes.