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13/01/2025

Nelson Mandela University has been granted a High Court interdict against former student, Mr Isaac Matomela Diale, ordering him not to make false and defamatory statements against the Vice-Chancellor Professor Sibongile Muthwa, the University and its employees.

The Court interdict was granted on 13 November 2024 in favour of the University and includes the following orders:

  • Interdict against false or defamatory statements: Mr Diale is interdicted and restrained from making, disseminating, or publishing any false, defamatory allegations regarding the University, its functionaries, or its employees, either directly or indirectly.
  • Prohibition on social media posts: Mr. Diale is prohibited from posting or publishing any information or statements pertaining to the University’s Vice-Chancellor  or the University on platforms such as X (formerly Twitter), Facebook, Hello Peter, or any other social media.
  • Restricted communication: Mr. Diale is barred from directly communicating with the University’s Vice-Chancellor, any of its functionaries, or employees, except for matters directly and bona fide related to his academic record.
  • Correspondence limitations: Mr. Diale is prohibited from addressing any correspondence to the University that is not directly relevant to his academic record.

The Court Order underscores the University’s commitment to protect its reputation or good name and ensure a safe, respectful and professional environment for its staff, students and broader community.  Nelson Mandela University promotes and recognises the critical role of robust and constructive dialogue within an academic setting. However, we will not tolerate defamatory or harmful conduct that undermines the dignity, safety, or integrity of our institution and its stakeholders.

The University remains unwavering in its commitment to foster an environment where academic freedom and mutual respect prevails. While the University considers this matter as having been finalised, the University’s rights remain fully reserved and we look forward to focusing on our primary mission: to offer a diverse range of life-changing educational experiences for a better world. 

Please see attached interdict.

 

Contact information
Ms Zandile Mbabela
Media Manager
Tel: 0415042777
Zandile.Mbabela@mandela.ac.za

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