Man accused of killing ex-wife bids for bail

SUPPORTERS of the #JusticeforMandy campaign will return to court in Kimberley tomorrow when murder accused Alberto Matthews is expected to apply for bail.

Matthews allegedly shot his ex-wife, Mandy Bailey, 43, in the presence of her nine-year-old daughter at her home in Main Road, Beaconsfield, on December 27, 2023.

He previously abandoned his right to apply for bail in January.

Matthews appeared in the Kimberley Magistrate’s Court earlier this week where his bail application was postponed due to the unavailability of the investigating officer.

Bailey was employed as a senior state accountant for salary administration at the Department of Co-operative Governance, Human Settlements and Traditional Affairs (Coghsta).

Bailey’s eldest daughter, Erin Cupido, stated that her family was living in fear.

“I am angry and hurt over my mother’s death. Our lives are in the hands of the justice system,” said Cupido.

Ronel Booysen called for justice to be served for her sister’s death.

Herbert Miller from the Justive4all GBVF Northern Cape Movement stated that an online petition, which has attracted 1 011 signatures, would be handed over during the bail hearing.

“Granting bail would be an insult to Mandy’s memory. Her two young children were robbed of the opportunity to celebrate Mother’s Day with their mother.”

Northern Cape Gender-Based Violence and Femicide convener Gregory Nyongane called on all formations, including the Moral Regeneration Movement and inter-faith and non-profit organisations, to support the bereaved family.

“We further urge the State to oppose the granting of bail. A petition will be handed over to the Department of Justice,” said Nyongane.

Tremaine Seekoei from the Women To Women organisation stated that the justice system had an obligation to protect vulnerable women and children.

“We request the court to ensure justice and that there are no unnecessary delays in the trial.”