News24 | ‘I lose hope with every postponement’: Nathaniel Julies’ mom laments constant trial delays

A mural honouring slain teen Nathaniel Julies, painted by artist Graham McKuur, seen in Eldorado Park, Gauteng on 4 September 2020. Julies was gunned down by police officers from Eldorado Park Police Station. (Fani Mahuntsi/Gallo Images)

• Nathaniel Julies, who had Down syndrome, was shot dead on 26 August 2020 in Eldorado Park.
• His mother, Bridget Harris, claims the justice system is failing her family as delays drag on in the murder trial against three former police officers.
• Attending the trial against the three accused has made Harris feel her son’s presence even as justice remains out of reach.

Four years after the tragic killing of 16-year-old Nathaniel Julies, his mother, Bridget Harris, said the slow progress of the trial has left her emotionally exhausted and questioning whether justice will ever be served.

READ | ‘He was killed by his heroes’: Special tombstone for Nathaniel Julies unveiled in Eldorado Park

“I am really worried about all these delays. It’s been too long – this matter should have been completed by now,” Harris told News24.

“Things are happening, but everything is moving so slowly. I have so many doubts, and I honestly don’t see justice being delivered at this pace,” she added.

Julies, a teenager with Down syndrome, was shot and killed on 26 August 2020 in Eldorado Park. His death sparked national outrage and protests against police brutality.

Three former Eldorado Park police officers, Simon “Scorpion” Ndyalvane, Caylene Whiteboy, and Voster Netshiongolo, are charged with offences related to his murder.

For Harris, each postponement in the Gauteng High Court sitting in Palm Ridge is a fresh wound.

She said:

“I don’t think I’m strong enough to sit in court and hear it all again.”

Nathaniel would have turned 21 this year.

His mother says the family marked his birthday on 29 June by visiting his grave, singing for him, and sharing his favourite snacks – biscuits and soft drinks, just as they used to when he was alive.

READ | Nathaniel Julies’ mother on coming to terms with the devastating loss of her son

“I believe he is still with us. I feel his presence, especially when I am alone.”

Harris continues to draw strength from her faith and her son’s memory.

“Whenever I dream about him, I kneel, pray, and smile. I thank God for lifting me up whenever I feel down,” she said.

“I will never give up. His spirit gives me the strength to carry on and focus on my life. I don’t allow stress to derail my strength.”

The trial against the three former officers continues on 29 October.