Mbalula to lay charges against ‘name dropping’ Somizi
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula has denied telling entertainer Somizi Mhlongo that the lockdown would be extended before the president’s announcement.
In a widely-circulated video on twitter, Mhlongo can be heard telling radio host Dineo Ranaka and an unidentified person that Mbalula told him the lockdown would be extended.
Fikile Mbalula to open a case against Idols SA Judge Somizi Mhlongo! cc @MbalulaFikile @Somizi #somizi #fikilembalula #Day14ofLockdown READ HERE > https://t.co/lUN9DYZEXf pic.twitter.com/dx9uWZE7wJ
— Mgosi.co.za (@Mgosi_SA) April 10, 2020
Mbalula has streniously denied divulging any information to Mhlongo.
He has now also confirmed that he would be laying charges at Sandton Police Station.
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“As I did not discuss the lockdown timeline or extension plans with Mr Mhlongo at all whatsoever and to this end my conscience is clear and prepared to attest to this under oath - having served in multiple cabinets,” Mbalula said.
“Mr Mhlongo acted very recklessly and irresponsibly. Name dropping has caused enough harm in our discourse before and we must now nib it in the bud.”
Mbalula says he has discussed the issue with President Cyril Ramaphosa.
Mhlongo has since apologised for his remarks.