Media Mogul Basetsana Kumalo Celebrates As Court Finds Jackie Phamotse Guilty

South African media mogul, Basetsana Kumalo recorded a victory in court yesterday after author Jackie Phamotse was found guilty on all four counts: two of crimen injuria, one of Criminal Defamation, and one of Contempt of Court. The verdict emerged from a telling five-year legal engagement between the two public figures.

In response to the outcome, Basetsana Kumalo was reported to have been visibly relieved. The trial was initiated following a contentious social media post by Phamotse, dated 5th June 2018. Her tweet implied she had knowledge of a sex video involving a female TV mogul, later identified to be Kumalo, and her husband.

Phamotse’s best-selling book entitled "I Tweet What I Like So Sue Me" was reputedly based on the incident and was admitted as evidence in court. Phamotse's argument that her tweets were often quotes or opinion pieces used as part of her writing process was rejected by the court. Magistrate S Naidoo found her guilty each count, citing the book’s clear evidence of cyber harassment.

Reacting to the judgment, Kumalo reportedly said that she sees this victory not only as a personal one but as a symbol of hope for those who have gone through the trauma of being cyberbullied. She empathetically acknowledged everyone who had supported her through what she described as a challenging five-year journey.

Phindi Mjonondwane, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority, commended this groundbreaking ruling. He highlighted the verdict as an important reminder for social media users to uphold respect and consider the potential harm caused to others.