The long-standing legal battle between kwaito veteran Arthur Mafokate and singer Busisiwe “Cici” Thwala has taken a million-rand turn. Mafokate, 56, has officially filed a R1.5 million defamation claim against his former partner in the Johannesburg High Court.
This latest move follows a series of social media posts shared by Cici in September 2025, which the music executive claims were calculated to destroy his reputation and financial standing.
The Core of the Claim: “Damaged Reputation and Lost Business”
In court documents, the 999 Music boss alleges that Cici’s online activity has had a catastrophic impact on his life. The lawsuit centers on several points:
- Defamatory Content: Mafokate points to posts where Cici allegedly accused him of assault and “almost murdering” her.
- Medical Images: The claim mentions the sharing of X-ray images related to Cici’s previous pelvic surgery, which she has historically linked to an altercation with Mafokate.
- Financial Impact: The veteran producer argues the posts caused significant emotional distress and led to the cancellation of business opportunities, as brands distance themselves from the controversy.
A Toxic Legal History (2017–Present)
The feud between the two stars dates back to a highly publicized incident in June 2017. While the details remain a point of contention:
- Cici’s Allegation: She claimed Mafokate dragged her with his vehicle, resulting in severe injuries.
- Mafokate’s Defense: He maintained that he was the victim of an attack by Cici during the same incident.
- The Verdicts: In a complex legal twist, both parties were previously acquitted of the criminal charges brought against each other in earlier court appearances.
Current Status
As it stands, Mafokate is seeking R1.5 million in damages for the harm caused to his brand. While Mafokate has declined to comment further, Cici’s legal representatives have yet to issue a public response to the High Court filing.
