Controversial social media commentator Musa Khawula has been denied bail and will remain in custody at Johannesburg Prison, also known as Sun City, following his appearance at the Randburg Magistrate’s Court. Khawula faces charges of criminal injuria and violations of the Cybercrime Act. He was arrested last week in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, and spent six nights behind bars before being moved to Johannesburg.
South African Police Service (SAPS) spokesperson Mavela Masondo confirmed Khawula’s arrest, adding that he is set to appear in court again on 21 January 2025 for his bail application. His Legal Aid lawyer, Ofentse Nkgwang, informed the media that Khawula will not be making any public statements regarding the case.
Khawula’s legal troubles stem from a series of controversial posts on his X (formerly Twitter) account, where he made serious allegations against businessman Ze Nxumalo and his wife, Tamaryn Green-Nxumalo. He accused Ze Nxumalo of infidelity during his wife’s pregnancy, claiming an affair with reality TV star Lebo Mokoena. The Nxumalo family’s legal team demanded a retraction and apology, but Khawula’s sarcastic response led to a court order for him to remove the posts. When he failed to comply, a warrant for his arrest was issued.
Additionally, Khawula is facing backlash over recent social media posts accusing Deputy Minister of Transport Mkhuleko Hlengwa of demanding sexual favours from junior staff members. Khawula will return to the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on 21 January for his bail application, where the next phase of his legal battle will unfold.
