Shivambu's verbal grenades ignite legal firestorm
The uMkhonto weSizwe (MK Party) is embroiled in a legal storm after its national spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndhlela, demanded a retraction and public apology from former its secretary-general Floyd Shivambu over defamatory remarks made during an eNCA interview.
Ndhlela’s legal team, Ndou Inc Attorneys, issued a letter of demand on June 24, threatening judicial action if Shivambu fails to comply within 48 hours.
The dispute stems from an interview broadcast on June 23, where Shivambu allegedly accused Ndhlela of being “always on drugs and always high on alcohol” and taking pride in lying to President Jacob Zuma.
The remarks, amplified on social media, have sparked outrage within the MK Party. Ndhlela’s lawyers condemned the statements as “false, defamatory, and, malicious,” vowing to protect their client’s reputation.
“Our client, Nhlamulo Ndhlela, has been subjected to a vicious campaign of lies and character assassination,” the lawyers said in a statement.
The legal team outlined specific demands, including a public retraction on Shivambu’s X account, pinned for seven days, and an unconditional apology.
“Social media cannot be a lawless space where individuals are slandered without consequence. We are preparing to issue summons to identified perpetrators and will seek substantial damages.”
The lawyers also called on Shivambu to contact eNCA to broadcast a correction, with failure to comply risking further legal action.
Shivambu’s comments followed a reported internal rift, with Ndhlela denying the allegations and offering to undergo a drug test.
Ndhlela’s lawyers emphasised a constitutional breach, citing violations of his dignity and reputation under South African law.
“Your actions have infringed our client’s rights to dignity and a good name, and we are fully prepared to enforce these rights through judicial processes, if necessary,” they warned.
The team demanded Shivambu retract the statements with wording confirming their falsehood and expressing regret. As the 48-hour deadline looms, the MK Party braces for a potential court battle.
“Those who continue to spread falsehoods about Nhlamulo Ndhlela will face the full might of the law.”
IOL Politics