MK Party's Ndhlela sues Shivambu for defamation of character, demanding R3m

JOHANNESBURG – The spokesperson of uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party, Nhlamulo Ndhlela, is suing the party’s former secretary general, Floyd Shivambu, for defamation of character, demanding R3 million in damages.

This comes after Shivambu accused Ndhlela of drug use and alcohol abuse.

In papers filed at the Johannesburg High Court, Ndhlela claims to have suffered reputational damage from Shivambu’s utterances.

Shivambu made the accusations during a series of televised interviews,  where he opened up about what he described as dodgy dealing within the MK Party.

According to court documents, Ndhlela said Shivambu was given until this past Tuesday to issue a public apology but failed to do so.

Ndhlela argued that Shivambu’s accusation, suggesting he makes decisions while under the influence, led to widespread mockery on social media, damaging his reputation.

He further claimed the remarks have affected his mental health, saying he’s suffered anxiety, stress and humiliation.

Ndhlela noted that the reputational damage has resulted in financial losses totalling R3 million.