Our marriage and personal lives have been the subject of vicious social media attacks over the past week. We issue this statement in response to those false and defamatory allegations. The allegations allude to a sex tape which does not exist. The source of the allegations is an author whom we have never met, spoken to or had any dealings with. We can only deduce for reasons which remain unclear, that the motivation behind these unfounded and salacious rumours was nothing but pure malice, and perhaps an attempt by the author to create publicity and boost her book sales.
The harm caused on a personal, emotional and professional level has been immeasurable. Moreover, the malicious spreading of fictitious rumours has caused enormous emotional harm to our children – who we have always tried to keep out of the public spotlight.
It has been enormously challenging to remain silent over the past week. Our silence thus far has not been because there is any merit or truth in these allegations – but simply because we have been so deeply shocked and hurt by the salacious content and manner in which it has been recklessly shared and spread.
But today is when we break the silence. We feel it is our duty to take a stand – both against the individuals involved in spreading these baseless allegations and also, against all those keyboard warriors who so swiftly jump on the bandwagon to share harmful content about others – without considering the long-term harm this can cause. We have sought legal counsel and have laid criminal charges of crimen injuria and are applying for Protection Orders against those responsible. The defamatory content has also since been picked up by mainstream media, and we are considering other legal options available, including laying a complaint to the Independent Media Ombudsman.
It is our hope that in taking a public stand against this type of malicious and reckless behaviour, we will send a strong message to all those who regularly and carelessly share false and harmful information about others without fact-checking or considering the tremendous harm to be caused on a personal, professional and reputational level. We would like to thank all of those who have stood by us throughout this very challenging period.
Basetsana and Romeo Kumalo – 16 June 2018
Hurt people, hurt people. It’s not about you, they are trying to feel better by inflicting pain on others. Askies.
PHD syndrome is a killer, and when you are a victim of it… You must know you are doing great things that haters will try to pull you down for.
Hi Bassie. I understand the reasoning for making the statement in response to the allegation make against your family. With that said. I did not expect it. The seed was planted. The only true way to uproot it is to follow legal recourse. People who love and respect your family, will continue to do so regardless of what is being said on the media. The only people you need to continue to protect and have a conversation with,regarding this, are your kids. As for the rest of us, you dont owe us any explaination or statement. Wishing you God strength. Will continue to love and respect you. Sending you positive energy….
How I wish I could hug you right now… phephisa nana. Sending you my love ❤
We cannot accept wrong and condone this kind of malice. People need to realise that these malicious rumours do not only hurt the couple but also their children. It is good that Bassie seek legal advise to deal with these idiots. It cannot be right that we accept these madness created by ruthless people. Yes there is freedom of speech but it goes with responsibility and cannot infringe on others.
Mr and Mrs Khumalo please do not loose heart and continue to do good. God is watching over your. He will continue to protect your marriage.
God’s peace
Thank you for this aunt Bassie… we love you and are behind you all the way. Big hugs.
sorry sisi kuzodlula abantu bayohlezi bekhuluma ungabanaki banomoma “LOVE YOU “
I’m definitely against it to respond to those allegations Mme K you and hubby don’t owe anyone any explanation. It’s none of anyone’s business. What are those people going to gain to ruin your reputation na? I hate how people can be happy with people’ misery. Mina i was so heart broken i even told a friend of mine she told me not to believe everything that’s on social media.Stay strong 💪 big hugs 🤗😍😘.
Hi Sis Bassie ..
I am honestly praying with u and your family.
May Gods comfort envelope u.
Your enemies may have meant it for evil, But our God works out all things for Good.
U r one womanni pray for earnestly….
Much Love
I Know you both are exemplary people and will always support you