Basetsana Kumalo and her husband, Romeo Kumalo, are overjoyed after the sentencing of Jackie Phamotse in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
Phamotse, the author who defamed the former beauty queen, has been sentenced to two years of house arrest, a fine, and unpaid community service.
Speaking to journalists, Basetsana expressed her relief and excitement as her life has been restored. She plans to celebrate with her family in a three-day celebration. “I’m very much relieved that we can finally restore our lives and find our peace and move on,” she said.
Basetsana emphasized the importance of standing up for oneself and defending the dignity and integrity of one’s own family. She believes that no one should allow others to define their destiny or take away their voice. Through this court case, Basetsana restored her voice and the narrative of her life.
As she approaches her 50th birthday, Basetsana is looking forward to a “good Friday” and three days of celebration and thanksgiving. The festivities will include a gala dinner on Saturday and a Thanksgiving picnic on Sunday.
Basetsana sees the unprecedented judgment as a victory not only for her family but for every South African who works hard to earn an honest living. She believes that this judgment provides recourse for those who have been cyberbullied and is a tribute to those who have tragically taken their own lives because of cyberbullies.
This landmark ruling sets a precedent and gives hope to all South Africans that they can seek justice if they are victims of cyberbullying.
