Bishop Maumela Apologises, Withdraws Remarks After Sibiya Court Appearance

Bishop Azwihangwi Maumela has apologised and unreservedly withdrawn remarks he made to the media following Lieutenant-General Shadrack Sibiya’s first court appearance.

In a statement, Maumela said he had reflected on his comments and received advice from people who engaged with him, leading him to acknowledge that his previous statements were inappropriate and did not reflect his true intentions.

The bishop had previously made threatening remarks directed at President Cyril Ramaphosa and the South African Police Service (SAPS) following the arrest of the suspended deputy commissioner. His retraction comes shortly after the high-profile court appearance of Sibiya, who is facing serious charges including rape, grooming, and human trafficking.