THE Kumalos are relieved after five years of going back and forth with Jackie Phamotse.
This comes after the famous author and motivational speaker Jackie Phamotse was found guilty in her defamatory case against TV star Basetsana and her husband Romeo Kumalo at the Randburg Magistrates Court on Wednesday, 19 September.
Jackie will be back in court on Tuesday, 24 October, for pre-sentencing and to hear her jail terms.
On Thursday, 21 September, the Kumalos released a statement on their victory against her.
"Mr. and Mrs. Kumalo welcome the outcome of the proceedings involving a case of defamation against Ms. Jackie Phamotse," it read.
"The court has found Ms. Phamotse guilty on two counts of Crimen injuria, one count of Criminal Defamation and one count of Contempt of Court. We are relieved that the saga has been dispensed with and that our families can start a moment of reflection, healing, and recovery," the statement read.
They said this ordeal has been a severe test on the bonds of family and friends.
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"Our children have been devastatingly impacted by these damning allegations. We watched with pain, their psychological beings, social lives, and self-esteem taking unimaginable knocks. As businesspeople, our ability to pursue sustainable livelihoods was hamstrung, with some business prospects being brought to a halt," they said.
The family said they are grateful for the immense support received from family, friends, and the greater South African community at large.
They further said that they would like to see citizens use social media in a positive way, not in a way to bully or destroy others.
Statement of Mr. and Mrs. Romeo and Basetsana Kumalo on the outcome of the court proceedings involving Ms. Jackie Phamotse 21 September 2023
"Social media remains a powerful avenue through which we can empower and educate each other. It is, therefore, critical that it is not used as an outlet to defame, disparage, and besmirch," the couple said.
"The South African Justice system remains one the most resilient in the world. We appreciate the diligence with which the matter was dealt with and hope that true to form, the courts will continue to adjudicate on these matters with a fastidious, steady, and stern hand," they said.
