Loan dispute puts friendship on trial

A 29-year-old man from Ha-Abia has taken his friend to a local court after a financial agreement between them went awry.

Kekane Kakane has approached the Matala Local Court, seeking justice against his long-time friend, 29-year-old Samuel Matshaba from Lithabaneng.

Kekane’s plea centered around a loan of M2000, which he had extended to Matshaba in May 2024. The money was intended to assist him in financing his wife’s trip to Port Elizabeth.

Kekane felt confident in his friend’s commitment after he promised to repay the loan by the end of the same month.

However, as the deadline passed and months dragged on, Matshaba failed to honour his word, prompting Kekane to take legal action.

Kekane told Matala Local Court president, Mathuntsi Ntsala, this week how he trusted Matshaba and comfortable to lend him the money.

Recounted the circumstances leading to the loan agreement, Kekane said: “I trusted Samuel.”

He explained. “He assured me that he would pay me back, and I believed him.”

Kekane’s disappointment was palpable as he expressed how the lack of repayment had affected him.

On his part, Matshaba explained why he failed to repay the loan.

He acknowledged that he had asked for the money with the intention of returning it but was ultimately unable to do so due to unforeseen life challenges.

“I am truly sorry for not being able to pay back the money as promised. I had hoped to return it, but life took a different turn,” he told the court.

In a bid to rectify the situation, Matshaba proposed a new repayment plan.

He suggested paying back the M2000 in installments of M500, starting next month (Jan), further expressing his commitment to making good on his debt. “I swear before this court that I will pay every amount I owe.”

Kekane, however, was skeptical. “How can I trust that you will keep your word this time?”

He challenged Matshaba, reflecting the tension that had developed between the two friends. The latter reiterated his promise and vowed to bring every payment to the court as proof of his commitment.

After considering both sides, Ntsala addressed the court. She acknowledged the emotional weight of the case and the importance of maintaining trust in friendships.

“The court blesses the terms proposed by Samuel (Matshaba),” she said.

“He shall repay the M2000 in sections, along with damages incurred by Kekane in bringing this case to court, totalling M2316,” she ruled.

As the court session concluded, the atmosphere was heavy with mixed emotions. Kekane left with a sense of cautious optimism, while Matshaba faced the daunting task of rebuilding trust with his friend.

The long dispute highlights complexities of trust and responsibility in financial dealings among friends.