Mbokazi loses court battle
DURBAN socialite and TV personality Zanele Mbokazi- Nkambule last night failed in her bid to to interdict Sunday World from publishing a story containing allegations of "improper conduct" against her.
In her affidavit, Mbokazi- Nkambule said she was "a spiritual leader, an author of Christian inspirational texts and books, a lay preacher, an inspirational speaker, event organiser and businesswoman."
She told the Johannesburg High Court she enjoys substantial popular support from a number of South Africans and is able to command a significant audience, especially in the Christian community, due to her radio and TV programmes and public profile.
"The radio and TV programmes in which I participate are broadcast on various SABC and independent radio and TV channels.
"I depend for my income on my career as aforesaid and my reputation is critical to my capacity to attract audiences and sponsors to the shows and events in which I participate," Mbokazi- Nkambule argued.
"I am on the brink of securing substantial sponsorship, which is ... still under negotiation in relation to a TV show which, if successful, will generate significant income for me and represent a substantial increase in my career opportunities."
She said for a number of years she was friendly with a certain Pastor Dube, who enjoys a large church following and is a member of Parliament in the KwaZulu-Natal legislature.
In November last year a dispute developed with Pastor Dube regarding the staging of an annual crossover event known as "Ayihlone", which is held on December 31 every year.
Mbokazi-Nkambule claimed it became apparent that Dube is now "intent on damaging my reputation and is utilising the media and other means to do so".
"In this he appears to be aided and abetted by Celimpilo Malinga, the woman I caused to be dismissed in November of last year.
"Pastor Dube has a strongly malicious intent against me arising from professional competition and jealousy and made allegations of my being a 'sinner' and 'an adulterer'."
Sunday World editor Wally Mbhele, in his answering affidavit, told the court the "allegations Sunday World intends publishing concern matters of public interest.
"A public figure who trades off an undeserved reputation for morality is not beyond the scrutiny of the press.
"The allegations about the applicant are precisely why our Constitution protects free expression and, specifically, a free press: to allow the press to perform its watchdog functions and to allow for the public and transparent exchange of information.
"It is further part and parcel of the public's right to information, a further constitutionally guaranteed right, that publication of these allegations should not be interdicted."
There was jubilation in the public gallery (where Avusa Editor-in-chief Mondli Makhanya was present) as Judge Zeenat Carelse dismissed Mbokazi's application with costs.
Sunday World was represented by Advocate Matthew Welz, who was instructed by Dario Milo of Webber Wentzel.
sifisonkosi
No comment to this one...God knows the truth of it!
veryslowmotion
I still remember Sunday World running stories about the Vice President which turned out to be untrue and no apology was offered. I hope you are not being used in a personal vendetta against an innocent woman. The other person is in a coma and can't defend himself. How curious.
Babedollz
Whatever you going through @ the moment, God is by your side. Never let the devil shift your focus, press on praying. I love you Zanele but God loves u more. Be blessed. I'm with you in prayer.
LaVidaLoca
I just hope this newspaper is right......
sizalicious
Only God knows who is right and who is wrong
SmangahSthenjwas
only god know, this is the challage nje, but it will pass affair or no affair you still my role model ms mbokazi
insideinfo
where there is smoke....there is fire!!!
