By Siphesihle Dlamini
A sombre mood engulfed the Mbabane Magistrate’s Court on Monday as South African truck driver, Stephen Shuping (43), made his appearance following a tragic incident that claimed the life of cyclist Shirley Kenny-Motsa.
The court revealed that Shuping was allegedly under the influence of alcohol when the fatal accident occurred, leading to charges of culpable homicide being brought against him.
The heartbreaking incident took place on March 16, 2024, around 5 am near Manzana, Mbabane. Shuping, behind the wheel of a Mercedes Truck Tractor (Articulated), allegedly lost control of the vehicle, veered off the road, and struck Shirley Kenny-Motsa, resulting in her untimely death.
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The victim suffered serious head injuries and fractures in both legs, ultimately succumbing to her injuries at Mbabane Government Hospital.
Shirley Kenny-Motsa was an Eswatini Cycling Association Executive member and Newcomm Wheels female rider.
She was also the wife of Newcomm Wheels Principal and former national team coach, Mbusi Motsa. She was also a member of the Golden Foot Athletics Club and worked for the National Maize Corporation (NMC) as Chief Financial Officer.
According to the charge sheet, Shuping was found to have been driving under the influence of alcohol, with a recorded alcohol content of 0.70 mg/l.
The sheet further detailed that Shuping was allegedly driving at an unreasonable speed, failed to apply brakes in time, and ultimately failed to avoid the tragic accident.
The Crown argued for Shuping to be remanded in custody until March 25, 2024, citing concerns that the accused, being from South Africa, may not return for trial if granted bail.
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With no relatives in the country and the possibility that the truck business owner may also be from South Africa, the court expressed apprehension that Shuping could abscond if released on bail.
In his bail plea, Shuping cited responsibilities as a parent, expressing concern for his children’s well-being in his absence. “I don’t even know if they know that I am arrested on this side,” he added.
However, the court emphasized the gravity of the offence and the potential risk of Shuping not returning if granted bail, stating that it could undermine the administration of justice.
Shuping will remain in custody until March 25, 2024, pending further investigation and the filing of the post-mortem report.
