‘Sunflower worth more than a human life’: #Coligny trends in South Africa as accused granted bail

sunflowrer #coligny south africa twitter

#Coligny is the hashtag currently dominating Twitter in South Africa, not #MondayMotivation.

The farming town in the North West has for the latter weeks of April, and the early days of May been embroiled in a simmering cultural, racial and judicial showdown.

Two farmers, who were accused of killing a 16-year-old boy caught stealing sunflowers from their farm, were granted bail in the region’s magistrates court Monday. The boy, who the farmers were reportedly transporting to the police station, allegedly jumped from the bakkie they were travelling in, and broke his neck. Eyewitnesses however suggest that the boy was pushed.

The incident took place on 20 April, but the boy, who was called Matlhomola Jonas Mosweu, was buried Sunday.

Today, the two men were granted bail, and the community — and Twitter — weren’t happy with the outcome.

Many were against the awarding of R5000 bail, and blamed the privilege of human possessions above human life.

Some highlighted the prevalence of stressed race relations in South Africa.

After bail was granted, some in the community said they would "burn" the farm.

At least two houses were burnt.

Journalists on the ground were reportedly attacked by angry farmers, suggesting that the unrest in this town isn't simply one-sided.

Others on Twitter though still clung onto hope, suggesting that South Africa's racial relations "have improved".

South Africa's minister of police Fikile Mbalula has suggested that "SAPS is monitoring the situation" in the town. He also condemned the "attack on the people and media".

Other political figures and those in positions of authority have yet to comment on the incidents.

This is a developing story. Refresh the page regularly for updates.

Andy Walker, former editor
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