Positive Resolution for Madlala Family After a Decade of Legal Battle
After nearly a decade of relentless pursuit of justice, the Madlala family has finally found closure with a court settlement at the Makhanda High Court on 26 July 2024. The settlement marked a crucial step towards holding the Department of Basic Education accountable for the tragic death of their son, Mulando Junior Madlala, who lost his life at Ekuphumleni Junior Secondary School almost ten years ago.
Mulando, just shy of four years old at the time, tragically lost his life due to negligence on the part of the Department of Basic Education. He was fatally injured by a truck delivering tanks at the school. The incident, which left the Madlala family shattered, prompted a lengthy legal battle to seek justice and ensure accountability for their son’s untimely death.
The family’s perseverance was bolstered by the unwavering support of the Legal Resources Centre, which took up their case in 2017 after previous legal representation withdrew. The LRC played a pivotal role in guiding the Madlala family through the complexities of the legal process, ensuring that they get justice.
After years of preparing for their day in court, the Defendants proposed an out of court settlement on the eve of the commencement of the trial. After negotiations, the family decided to accept the offer, choosing to avoid reliving the trauma of their son’s death in court.
The settlement has now been made an order of court and the family now has closure, and they can begin the healing process.
