Two prominent political figures have been served with court summonses following allegations they falsely labelled a school principal a child rapist.

AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit confirmed that Fikile Mbalula received a summons to appear in court on 27 October, while Julius Malema was summoned for 26 October. Both court appearances are however currently on hold while the National Director of Public Prosecutions (NDPP), Adv. Andy Mothibi, reviews the decision to prosecute.

The charges stem from accusations that Mbalula and Malema branded school principal Jaco Pieterse a child rapist. Both men face crimen injuria charges, which relate to unlawfully and intentionally impairing the dignity of another person.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) recently confirmed its decision to prosecute both individuals after a review of the case.

Gauteng Deputy Director of Public Prosecutions, Adv. Andrew Chauke, rejected representations made by Mbalula’s legal team. He informed them that his office believes a prima facie case exists against Mbalula and that the matter should proceed to court.

Mbalula’s legal team had argued the case was politically motivated. However, Adv. Chauke rejected this claim, stating his office had thoroughly studied the criminal case docket and based its decision on legal principles and facts. He said there was no political influence or motivation attached to the decision.

AfriForum’s Private Prosecution Unit said it has full confidence in Adv. Chauke’s position and hopes the NDPP will also reject what it described as attempts to avoid prosecution. The unit said it is confident both men will eventually answer to the charges in court.

The case relates to public statements made about Pieterse, though the specific details of when and where these statements were made have not been disclosed in the latest update.

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