Social media law specialist, Emma Sadleir, says UKZN lecturer and part time comedian, Mohammed Yacoob Vawda, can sue Independent Media for defamation of character following the media house’s alleged expose.
Earlier this week, ANC veteran Lindiwe Sisulu along with IOL’s Iqbal Surve linked Vawda and two others, including a woman in the Presidency, to the controversial Goolam account, which is regarded by some as a disinformation and harassment tool.
In a video on social media, the 37-year-old man from Durban says he now fears for his life after receiving threats.
He says he wants his name cleared.
Mohammed Yacoob Vawda who Independent Media accused of being behind the controversial account (@goolammv) has released a statement denying the allegations.
The UKZN lecturer and part-time comedian said he is worried these allegations can put him and his family in danger. pic.twitter.com/dHbY5Jw4MR
— Thabiso Goba (@ThabisoGoba2) July 15, 2024
Sadleir says the claims against the lecturer has potential to affect Vawda’s professional and personal life.
Earlier on Wednesday, Vawda’s legal team, Attorney Rupert Candy, gave Independent Media until the close of business to retract its statements against him.
The move came a day after the media group deleted Sisulu’s interview after widespread criticism from social media users.
Sadleir says IOL’s decision is very telling.
JUST IN:@IOL has until the close of business today to retract all statements that the X account of @goolammv is that of a KZN lecturer M Y Vawda. Attorney Rupert Candy has warned them if they fail stop do so, an urgent high court application will be launched against them. pic.twitter.com/O8aqa6Skts
— Ismail Abramjee (@IsmailAbramjee) July 17, 2024
She says considering the duty entrusted on news agencies, it would be within Vawda’s right to approach the Press Ombudsman, which would hold Independent Media to account.
IOL has apologised to Vawda, saying releasing his profile was an oversight.
It’s now named Mohammed Sulieman Vawda as Goolam.
According to the media house, Vawda has a colourful life and has been criminally accused on several occasions with charges mysteriously withdrawn.
IOL and Independent Media on Wednesday provided an update on the ongoing investigation into the @Goolammv X (formerly Twitter) account, revealing significant findings and addressing previous errors in the investigation.https://t.co/mNKLnx911k pic.twitter.com/lR5F3AzosS
— IOL News (@IOL) July 17, 2024
Some social media users, however, believe the slandered UKZN lecturer, who was initially accused of spreading propaganda, should still sue Independent Media for revealing his information and tarnishing his image without proof – despite the organisation’s apology.
Worst apology ever https://t.co/bF9n6JvKR3
— Mohamed (@mdawjeef1) July 17, 2024
🚨BREAKING NEWS🚨
Mohammed Yacoob Vawda will be getting pro bono legal representation.#IAmGoolam https://t.co/ANszkrdjmz
— Frans Matthysen🇿🇦 (@Recon1_ZA) July 16, 2024
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