Former cabinet minister Malusi Gigaba, the Johannesburg High Court dismissed his emergency application to prevent the broadcast of his ex-wife’s candid television interview about their failed marriage.
Dario Milo, legal counsel for MultiChoice, revealed to reporters that the court imposed cumulative costs against Gigaba for the unsuccessful application. “The judgment permits the interview’s broadcast to continue as scheduled,” Milo stated.
ALSO READ: Chief Justice Challenges Mkhwanazi and Masemola to Provide Proof of Judicial Misconduct
Contentious Interview Details
The anticipated episode reportedly contains Mngoma’s personal account of her marriage to the former minister, including allegations of extramarital affairs and involvement with explicit material. Gigaba had argued in court documents that the broadcast would damage his carefully reconstructed public image following their divorce.
Broadcaster Defends Editorial Decision
MultiChoice executives maintained the interview’s legitimacy, with Brandon Vermeulen, the company’s head of legal for general entertainment, emphasizing Mngoma’s right to share her experiences. “The content reflects Ms. Mngoma’s personal perspective on her marital relationship,” Vermeulen explained. “There’s nothing improper about allowing this narrative to be heard.”
The media company further contended that the discussed matters weren’t new revelations but rather previously publicized claims being revisited from Mngoma’s viewpoint.
From Power Couple to Legal Adversaries
The former couple, once prominent figures on South Africa’s political social circuit, have become embroiled in increasingly public disputes since their separation. Their appearance at the 2019 State of the Nation Address as a united front now stands in stark contrast to their current legal battles.
ALSO READ: Miss South Africa CEO Stephanie Weil Steps Down After Six Years
Legal analysts suggest this ruling may set a precedent regarding public figures’ ability to control personal narratives through judicial intervention when information exists in the public domain.