Chesterville Demands Justice After 6-Year-Old Okuhle Hlatshwayo Killed in Father’s Hit-and-Run

"Chesterville Demands Justice After 6-Year-Old Okuhle Hlatshwayo Killed in Father’s Hit-and-Run"

Taken from Facebook/ Mandla Chris

Community outrage grows as father is released on bail amid allegations of drunk driving and license violations.

The tight-knit community of Chesterville, Durban, is reeling after the death of 6-year-old Okuhle Hlatshwayo, who was fatally struck by a vehicle driven by her father on December 19th. The incident occurred at a local dumping ground, with witnesses alleging the father was drunk, unlicensed, and fled the scene.

Hundreds gathered at the scene this weekend for an emotional candlelight vigil, where distraught neighbors described Okuhle as "a bright light" who brought joy to everyone she met. Local resident Thandiwe Mkhize, 42, fought back tears as she told reporters: "That beautiful child didn't deserve this. We need answers and we need justice."

Taken from Facebook/Mandla Chris

Multiple witnesses report seeing the father flee the scene after the accident, only returning later when community members tracked him down. "He was clearly not in his right mind," claimed one witness who asked to remain anonymous. "The smell of alcohol was strong, and his eyes were bloodshot."

The decision to grant the father bail has ignited fury across Chesterville and beyond. Social media platforms have been flooded with comments criticizing what many see as another failure of South Africa's justice system.

Local activist Sipho Dlamini organized a peaceful protest outside the courthouse: "This isn't just about one family - it's about every child who isn't safe on our streets. When will our laws actually protect us?"

The tragedy has brought renewed attention to South Africa's ongoing road safety crisis: Shocking Statistics, Alcohol involved in 40% of fatal crashes, Pedestrians account for 35-40% of road deaths, KZN province records highest accident rates nationally

Transport Minister Sindisiwe Chikunga recently announced tougher measures, but community leaders argue enforcement remains woefully inadequate. "We need traffic police who actually do their jobs, not just more empty promises," said Chesterville ward councilor Nomvula Khumalo.