In Hammanskraal, Tshwane, family, friends, and community members came together on Tuesday, 26 August — the day Kgaugelo Marota would have turned 20 — to honour her memory. Their heartfelt gatherings included candlelight vigils, a community walk, and impromptu celebration that doubled as powerful acts of remembrance and resistance.
Members of the ANC Youth League’s Greater Tshwane Region visited Kgaugelo’s home in Portion 9 to hold a candlelight ceremony and present a birthday cake, symbolizing both grief and collective solidarity against gender-based violence.
A Night of Remembrance at the Tavern
Kgaugelo’s friends, remembering her vibrant spirit, gathered at a local tavern. They danced through the night, celebrating everything she loved — especially her dancing. Known for her exotic moves, Kgaugelo often performed at tavern events, where her energy and charm shone brightest. Friends fondly recalled joining her onstage, honoring her love for dance and the joy she brought to those moments.
A Friend’s Lament: Threats Ignored Too Long
A close friend, speaking anonymously, shared a chilling detail: Kgaugelo’s ex-lover, now accused of her murder, had repeatedly threatened her life. “He would follow us everywhere and demand to talk to Kgaugelo even when they were not dating anymore,” she said. The violence escalated from verbal intimidation to physical assault, with Kgaugelo appearing visibly bruised in a recently circulated video. She had hoped things would change — but tragically, they did not.
Her friend’s resolve is unwavering: “He took away the person we loved so much. I hope he rots in jail,” she said, reflecting both heartbreak and demand for justice.
Community Responds with Advocacy and Vigilance
Beyond the tavern tribute, the community took action. In addition to candlelighting at Kgaugelo’s home, participants embarked on an awareness walk against gender-based violence. Their powerful presence served as a reminder that her death is not just a personal tragedy, but part of a broader, societal crisis requiring urgent attention.
A Courtroom Awaits: Justice in the Making
Meanwhile, the accused, 26-year-old Lazarus Antonio — known on social media as Mfana Ngwenya — appeared in the Moretele Magistrates Court in Hammanskraal on Monday, 25 August. The courtroom was packed as the case was postponed to 5 September. Antonio faces charges of stabbing Kgaugelo to death and attempting to murder his current girlfriend, who survived and was hospitalized.
About the Author
