The family of nine-year-old Gomolemo Mavimbela says they feel a sense of relief after former Sekhukhune United footballer Mokete Shaune Mogaila pleaded guilty over the fatal Tembisa crash that claimed the young girl’s life.
Also see: Shaune Mogaila’s future uncertain amid ongoing court battle
According to Sowetan, Shaune, 29, appeared in the Tembisa Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 5 October 2026, where he pleaded guilty to culpable homicide and failing to render assistance following the October 2024 collision. He admitted that he had negligently caused or contributed to the crash after his vehicle veered into oncoming traffic on Andrew Mapheto Drive.
‘We are moving forward’
Gomolemo’s father, Tshepo Kekana, said the guilty plea has brought some relief to the family after a lengthy legal process involving several court appearances and postponements.
“At least we can see some light now, and we are moving forward,” Tshepo said, describing the plea as a step towards the end of the ordeal, the publication reported.
However, the family’s relief is tempered by the fact that the guilty plea does not erase the pain caused by Gomolemo’s death.
Tshepo said he was relieved that Shaune pleaded guilty, but added that the development was “not completely satisfying” because there was still more to what happened.
“I’m happy that we are finally reaching the end of the tunnel and there is some light,” he said.
Also see: Sekhukhune FC lies about victim’s family blessing Shaune Magaila’s return to the pitch
Gomolemo Mavimbela’s mother wants a prison sentence
Gomolemo’s mother, Keo Mavimbela, has made it clear that she wants Shaune to receive a direct prison sentence.
Keo was also seriously injured in the crash and spent two months in hospital. She was reportedly in a coma and did not know that her daughter had died, meaning she could not attend Gomolemo’s funeral.
She has said the injuries she suffered continue to affect her life, including her ability to walk and secure permanent employment.
“The only thing that will give me closure is if he is sentenced to direct imprisonment,” Keo told the publication.
Guilty plea brings case closer to sentencing
The National Prosecuting Authority welcomed Shaune’s guilty plea and subsequent conviction, saying it spared Gomolemo’s family and the other victims the emotional burden of a lengthy trial.
The families will now prepare victim impact statements, which will form part of the sentencing process. Shaune is due back in court on 17 November 2026 for sentencing proceedings.
For Gomolemo’s family, the guilty plea marks an important step after almost two years of waiting for the matter to reach this stage.
While the conviction cannot undo the loss of their daughter, Tshepo’s words capture the family’s current position: there is finally some light at the end of the tunnel.
FOOTBALLER PLEADS GUILTY AND IS CONVICTED OF CULPABLE HOMICIDE
The NPA welcomes the conviction of Mokete Sean Mogaila (29), after he pleaded guilty to charges of culpable homicide and failure to render assistance.
Report by Magaboke Mohlatlole, NPA Communications Officer https://t.co/sxa9yTjKnB
— NPASouthAfrica (@NPA_Prosecutes) October 5, 2026
Also see: Sekhukhune United FC breaks silence about car accident involving one of their players
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