An Eastern Cape man appeared in court in Alexandria for a formal bail application on Friday.
He was accused of attacking a young woman and stabbing her multiple times.
Over 200 community members gathered outside the court to oppose his bail.
Economic Freedom Fighters proportional representation (PR) councillor, Xolisa Runeli, said the community was angry and wanted justice.
“Community members have gathered outside court. As members of the EFF we are asking for no bail against this perpetrator who was the boyfriend, while she is in ICU fighting for her life,” Runeli said.
The man first appeared in court on Monday and returned on Friday for a formal bail application.
Police said the accused was arrested after they were called to the scene last week after a woman was heard screaming from a flat in a township in Alexandria.
Police spokesperson Mali Govender said the woman was brutally injured and was rushed to the hospital.
The suspect was immediately arrested and taken into custody.
The 18-year-old victim is currently in the hospital fighting for her life in intensive care.
“He is facing a charge of attempted murder and the victim is in a critical condition at a hospital in Port Elizabeth.”
“We are still in contact with the family and the hospital as well,” Govender said.
