In a compelling legal confrontation, Nhlamulo Ndhlela, the national spokesperson for the UMkhonto weSizwe Party (MKP), launched a defamation lawsuit against former party general secretary Floyd Shivambu, seeking a hefty R3-million in damages.

The lawsuit comes on the heels of disparaging claims made by Shivambu during an interview with eNCA which Ndhlela asserts were baseless and intended to damage his reputation.

Defamatory and malicious allegations

Shivambu, who has publicly disparaged Ndhlela, labelled him “an imbecile” and “a fool,” alleging that he is “always on drugs and always high on alcohol.” Furthermore, these allegations included accusations of dishonesty regarding his interactions with former president Jacob Zuma, specifically suggesting the misuse of Zuma’s daughter to gain influence within the MK Party.

Statements were made to undermine Ndhlela

According to  Ndhlela’s attorneys, Ndou Inc Attorneys, these statements reflect a significant disregard for truth and were crafted to undermine Ndhlela’s standing as a respected figure within both the party and the larger political landscape. “These remarks have resulted in reputational damage, emotional distress, and public ridicule,” read the court papers.

Ndhlela has faced public scrutiny

According to his legal team, since the interview aired, Ndhlela has faced a torrent of public scrutiny, receiving numerous phone calls and messages from colleagues and journalists seeking clarification in relation to the allegations. In an effort to mitigate the fallout, Ndhlela’s legal team presented screenshots of social media posts ridiculing him, further evidence of harm to his reputation.

Issue an apology on social media

According to a report by Times Live, Shivambu has been instructed to issue an apology and retract his statement on X within 48 hours. Additionally, he is required to pin the post for at least seven days, clearly stating that the allegations he made on eNCA were false and he regrets making them. He was further required to reach out to eNCA and ask them to air a correction of his statement.

The publication further added that if the demands were not met within 48 hours, the defamation lawsuit will be escalated to the high court. Shivambu will potentially face a court order requiring him to retract his statement and issue an apology. As well as covering the costs of the application.

sinenhlanhla.masilela@iol.co.za

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