Key Points
- Siqokoqela Mphoko seeks $500K for malicious prosecution damages.
- Court acquitted him, ruling the charges were fabricated.
- Viral allegations caused harm to his reputation and career.
Citing malicious prosecution, Siqokoqela Mphoko, the son of the late former vice president of Zimbabwe Phelekezela Mphoko, has launched a lawsuit demanding $500,000 in damages.
$500K lawsuit follows malicious prosecution claims
The case is about claims that Mphoko had “unlawful carnal knowledge” with the accuser’s daughter. As a result, he was arrested, found guilty, and sentenced to 20 years in jail. On appeal, however, the court declared that the charges were malicious and without merit, overturning the conviction.
Mphoko’s lawyer claimed in a demand letter that his client’s reputation was severely harmed by the charges and trial, especially since a close cousin was involved.
According to the letter, “you reported to the police that our client had unlawful carnal knowledge with your daughter, a minor.” “Our client was arrested, detained, and arraigned for trial as a result of your complaint.”
As stated by New Zimbabawe, the attorney added that Mphoko’s initial conviction was influenced by the accuser’s evidence. The appeal court, however, cleared Mphoko due to false and malicious accusations.
The lawyer emphasized how the case’s extensive national and social media coverage damaged the case’s reputation.
Reputational harm damages public figure and businessman
According to the letter, “Our client is a reputable businessman and a public figure.” The fact that the accused victim is a close relative made the trauma worse. Our customer was portrayed as a sexual predator.
According to Mphoko’s legal team, the accused would be summoned without further notice if payment or satisfactory arrangements are not reached.
“Our client makes the demands he does for the reasons listed above,” the lawyer stated.
