Suspected Parliament fire arsonist, Zandile Mafe, to appear in court

Suspected Parliament fire arsonist, Zandile Mafe, is challenging a court ruling on Tuesday that ordered him to go for mental observation at Valkenberg Psychiatric Hospital for 30 days.

Currently, Mafe is facing a total of five charges, these include arson, terrorism and house breaking with the intent to steal in relation to the incident.

His defence team appeared before the Western Cape High Court on Saturday, where it was decided that their judicial review of his referral for mental observation would be heard this week.

Since his arrest on the day that the fire broke out at Parliament, Mafe has appeared before the Cape Town Magistrates Court a total of 2 times.

Mafe was diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia by District surgeon, Dr. Zelda van Tonder, and referred to Valkenber Psychiatric Hospital.

This weekend Mafe’s lawyer, Luvuyo Godla, explained why they’re challenging this decision.

Pending the outcome of Tuesday’s judicial review, Mafe’s bail application has been scheduled for Saturday.

By Danielle Mentoor