Doreen Mokgolo
Lebo Makhene-Pulumo, the wife of actor and musician Letoya Makhene-Pulumo, says she will not withdraw the defamation of character lawsuit against businesswoman Matlhogonolo Ledwaba.
The queer activist was charged with malicious damage to property after she allegedly trashed Matlhogonolo’s bakery last weekend. The altercation happened during a birthday celebration for socialite Nyaniso Bhengu.
In the summons Matlhogonolo is expected to write a public apology, retract all statements published on social media and pay R500,000 within 14 days.
Lebo said her arrest has damaged her and her wife’s reputation.
“I have lost a book writing opportunity where I had invested my time and money because of the allegations and arrest,” said Lebo.
“My wife has also lost call backs to auditions. We are tired of people taking advantage of us in the media.”
She said she is not prepared to negotiate but to teach the business owner and others a lesson.
Bhengu said he regrets inviting the couple to his birthday celebration.
“They were supposed to be there for a short while because they had other plans but decided to stay because of the free booze. Lebo lost her temper when Letoya insisted that they leave, in her rage she assaulted one of the patrons who tried to calm her down. My night was ruined because of them,” he added.
Matlhogonolo said she received Lebo’s defamation law-suit through a journalist.
“I still cannot understand why she is suing me because she trashed my place. I am the one who incurred over R20,000 in damages. Was I expected to forget about it and not press charges when she intentionally damaged my property?” she asked.
Matlhogonolo refused to comment further saying that the matter is now in her lawyer’s hands.
Gauteng Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Sello confirmed that the Midrand police are investigating a case of malicious damage to property and common assault.
