Victory Against Cyberbullying: Basetsana Kumalo and Husband Win Defamation Case

Victory Against Cyberbullying: Basetsana Kumalo and Husband Win Defamation Case

Guilty Verdict in Defamation Case

In a landmark case that has garnered considerable attention, Basetsana Kumalo, a former beauty queen and successful businesswoman, along with her husband Romeo, have emerged victorious in a defamation suit against author and media personality, Jackie Phamotse. The Randburg Magistrates Court found Phamotse guilty of defamation, crimen injuria, and contempt of court based on a tweet she posted in 2018. The tweet suggested the existence of a sex tape involving the Kumalos and another male celebrity. Sentencing for this case is scheduled for 24 October.

Implications of the Legal Battle

Kumalo has opened up about the implications of this legal battle, stating that it represents a triumph for every individual who has painstakingly built a reputation, only to be publicly tarnished. She also emphasized the victory for those who have suffered the devastating effects of cyberbullying, which in some cases has led to suicide.

For the past five years, this incident has caused immense emotional pain and distress to Kumalo and her family. She described the situation as a hurtful onslaught from someone who did not personally know them. As of yet, Phamotse has not responded or commented on the matter.

A Case That Shook the Nation

The roots of the legal saga trace back to a tweet posted by Phamotse in 2018. The tweet, which suggested an explicit video involving the Kumalos, led to a five-year legal battle. Romeo Khumalo testified that the tweet caused immeasurable and irreparable damage to his and his business’s reputation. Basetsana Kumalo told the court that she felt violated, attacked, and insulted by the tweet.

Despite the Kumalos obtaining a protection order against Phamotse, she published a book titled “I tweet what I like, so sue me,” wherein she violated the protection order. She referred to a case number related to a case registered by Basetsana against her on the cover of her book. Furthermore, Phamotse suggested in the book that the Kumalos used their wealth to influence the magistrate in their favor.

Repercussions of Irresponsible Social Media Use

In court, Phamotse testified that the tweet was part of her writing process and she did not intend to harm anyone. However, Senior Public Prosecutor Yusuf Baba argued that Phamotse’s actions showed no regard for the Kumalos’ rights to privacy, dignity, and a good name. He stressed that her actions were intentionally aimed at tarnishing the Kumalos’ reputation.

This case has underscored the importance of responsible social media use as it has significant repercussions. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) welcomed the judgment, hoping it would educate the public about the consequences of irresponsible social media use. The judgment serves to empower the prosecution in its fight against cybercrime, particularly cyberbullying.

The Impact on the Kumalo Family

Basetsana Kumalo expressed her relief at the end of the taxing five-year-long legal battle. Describing it as a victory for her family, she highlighted how her family had to live in shame over the past five years. She also stressed the importance of the case in shedding light on cyberbullying, a growing problem that has claimed many lives.

Public Reaction

After the judgment was passed, Jackie Phamotse became a trending topic, with people celebrating her guilty verdict. While some netizens called for her arrest, others speculated on the potential consequences, including a possible fine or imprisonment. However, the final decision will depend on the aggravating factors presented in court.

Setting a Precedent

This case has set a precedent for addressing the serious consequences of online harassment. The judgment sends a clear message about the power of the legal system to uphold justice in the face of defamation and cyberbullying. The sentencing phase of the trial, postponed to October 24th, is eagerly awaited.