The Afrikan Alliance for Social Democrats (AASD) councillor in Mangaung Metro has once more demanded justice for the family of Liam Siegal (14), who was killed during the #MangaungShutdown protests in Heidedal, Bloemfontein.

Liam’s life was cut short, allegedly at the hands of a security guard attempting to disperse the crowd during protests in May 2021. OFM News previously reported that the #MangaungShutdown protests caused the disruption of schools and led to major unrest.

As the first wave of service delivery protests hit Bloemfontein, violence erupted, leading to the death of Liam.

“Four years later, the wounds of the Siegal family remain raw, compounded by the lack of closure and accountability,” emphasised AASD Cllr Lucky Mongale. After his latest visit to the aggrieved family, he called for justice on behalf of Liam’s family.

The speaker of Mangaung Metro, Lawrence Mathae, during the special council meeting for the 2024/25 budget. Photo: Screengrab 

In a council meeting held at the Mangaung headquarters, Mongale voiced his disappointment at the stagnant progress of the case and called for dignified justice for the grieving family.

He emphasised the importance of not allowing Liam’s memory to fade into oblivion, highlighting the family’s right to justice and closure. “The family deserves dignified justice,” Mongale said, underscoring the need for accountability within the municipality.

Johannes Pieterse, Liam’s father, previously spoke about the emotional toll the death of his son has taken on his family. After Liam’s burial, he expressed a sense of abandonment, feeling as though their plight had been overlooked. Liam’s mother, Rosaline Siegel, echoed his sentiments, lamenting the hollow promises that followed her son's death.

Mongale pledged to march to the United Nations’ (UN) headquarters if justice is not served.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg