Family, friends, and community members gathered at Soshanguve Crossing Cemetery on Saturday, April 25, 2026, to bid a final farewell to 19-year-old Mphoentle Amukelani Mabena. The Grade 12 pupil from Daspoort Secondary School in Tshwane was laid to rest following a tragedy that has sparked calls for justice within the community.
Tragedy at Daspoort Secondary School
Mphoentle committed suicide on Friday, April 17, 2026, at his parents’ home located in Block XX in Soshanguve. The loss has left his family and peers in mourning, with many describing him as a loving and respectful individual.
His mother, Morongwa Mabena, 49, has raised serious allegations regarding the events leading up to her son’s death. She alleges that Mphoentle was beaten by a teacher after he corrected the educator during a classroom session.
Mrs. Mabena further alleged that the school principal belittled her son, questioning who he thought he was and asking if he possessed a degree.
Tributes to a ‘Pure Heart’
During the memorial, Mphoentle’s sister, Bonolo Mathaba, remembered him as a companion with a pure heart and a unique smile. She described him as a playful brother and a source of support she could turn to whenever she was feeling down.
His friend, 18-year-old Bonolo Lesebe, praised Mphoentle’s loyalty and his ability to perceive when others were struggling. Solly Modila, a teacher at Daspoort Secondary School, too described the teenager as a respectful boy who was well-regarded by his circle of friends.
Demands for Accountability and Justice
The incident has drawn the attention of political and student leaders. Kagiso Maziya, the regional secretary of COSAS Greater Tshwane Region, criticized the current state of teaching, suggesting some educators are motivated by money rather than love.
Maziya explicitly called for justice for Mphoentle, stating that the community is receiving “bad results” instead of the positive outcomes expected from the education system.
Councillor Leon Kruyshaar of Ward 1 Democratic Alliance also expressed his hope that Mphoentle’s death would have meaning. He stated that some form of justice will be found to ensure no other child undergoes a similar experience.
Potential Next Steps
As the community seeks answers, there may be efforts to institutionalize Mphoentle’s memory. Councillor Kruyshaar has requested that the school celebrate a day every year in Mphoentle’s name.
Depending on the findings regarding the allegations made by Morongwa Mabena, there could be further investigations into the conduct of the teacher and the principal involved.
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Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Mphoentle Mabena buried?
Mphoentle Mabena was laid to rest on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Soshanguve Crossing Cemetery.
What are the allegations made by Mphoentle’s mother?
Morongwa Mabena alleges that her son was beaten by a teacher after correcting them in class and was subsequently belittled by the school principal, who asked if he had a degree.
Who is calling for justice in this case?
Kagiso Maziya, the regional secretary of COSAS Greater Tshwane Region, and Councillor Leon Kruyshaar of Ward 1 Democratic Alliance have both called for justice for Mphoentle.
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