In a legal battle that has spanned half a decade, Basetsana Kumalo and her husband Romeo have won their defamation case against author Jackie Phamotse. The case, which has been closely watched by the public, centred around a defamatory tweet posted by Phamotse in 2018.
The legal battle between Basetsana Kumalo, and Jackie Phamotse, a controversial author, began when Phamotse’s tweet suggested the existence of an explicit video involving Romeo Kumalo. The Randburg Magistrate’s Court found Phamotse guilty on all counts related to the tweet.
Speaking to the media after the victory, Basetsana Kumalo expressed her relief and joy following the victory. She said, “I cannot be able to tell you what today means for our family. It’s been five horrendous years working this journey and being in this court probably 30 times”.
She further emphasized that the judgement was not just for her family, but for every person who has been a victim of cyberbullying. “Today this unprecedented judgment is for all of us, for my children who had to live in shame over the last five years, for my parents’ legacy who raised us well. It’s been horrendous, it’s been horrific, it’s been hurtful, it’s been unkind that someone would wake up and attack people that she doesn’t know,” she stated.
In response to the allegations, Phamotse did not refute the tweet but instead responded with a laughing emoji and stated, “I love it,” which further fuelled speculation and linked the tweet to the Kumalos. This reaction from Phamotse was seen as an attempt to evade responsibility and showed a lack of remorse for her actions.
The sentencing is expected to take place on October 24. This case serves as a stark reminder of the potential legal consequences of defamatory posts on social media and the importance of maintaining respect and dignity in public discourse.
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Written by: Phetolo Sematha
Images: Facebook & X/ Basetsana Kumalo
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