A lawsuit has been filed by the son of the late former vice president Phelekezela Mphoko, seeking US$500,000 in damages for unfair prosecution.
The lawsuit stems from a series of allegations that Siqokoqela Mphoko had “unlawful carnal knowledge” of the accuser’s daughter, leading to Mphoko’s arrest and a 20-year sentence.
Mphoko’s conviction was eventually overturned on appeal, with the court finding the charges baseless and motivated by malice.
“You made a report to the police that our client had unlawful carnal knowledge of your daughter, a minor. As a result of your complaint, our client was arrested by the police, detained, and arraigned for trial.
“You gave evidence at the trial implicating our client and persisted with your allegations. Our client was, in part because of your evidence, convicted and sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment.
“On appeal, our client was acquitted on the basis that the charges against him were fabricated and actuated by malice,” reads the letter of demand.
Mphoko’s attorney claims the allegations against him went viral, causing damage to his life, with the victim being a close relative.
“As a result of the report you made and the charges that followed, the matter was widely publicized in the national press and on social media platforms. Our client is a businessman of repute and a public figure.
“His reputation and standing in society have been diminished in the eyes of right-thinking members of society.
“The damages are aggravated by the fact that the alleged victim is a very close relative. Our client was cast in the image of a sexual predator.”
The accuser will be summoned if payment arrangements are not made.
“It is for the above reasons that our client makes the demand he does. Unless payment or other satisfactory arrangements are made, our instructions are to issue summons against you without further notice,” the lawyer further said.