In the letter, the attorneys described the allegations as false, defamatory and malicious.
“The statements were made with reckless disregard for their truthfulness,” the letter read. “As a public representative and a member of the MK Party, you are duty-bound to ensure that your public statements are accurate and do not unjustly harm others.”
Shivambu was given 48 hours to publish an apology and a retraction of his statement on X, and to pin the post for a minimum of seven days, stating that “the allegations were false, without foundation and that you regret making them”.
Shivambu was also required to contact eNCA and request that they broadcast a correction of his statement.
Failure to comply with the demands within 48 hours would lead to further legal action, including a defamation case in the high court, a court order compelling him to retract his statement and issue an apology, and liability for all costs associated with the legal proceedings.
Despite his apology, Ndhlela has filed a civil case against Shivambu.
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