I have received many messages of support, as well as inquiries regarding the outcome in court yesterday in the “Butterfly” fabrication case. To clarify my position on the matter, I would like to say just three things.
Firstly, while several of us were falsely implicated in the matter, the primary victim by far was—and continues to be—Welheminah Maswabi. This innocent and remarkable young woman was targeted with several fabricated charges, falsely arrested and incarcerated, and subjected to harassment and intimidation while in detention. She stands out for me as a national heroine—not only for what she endured but for how she stood firm in her conviction of her own innocence and that of others.
Her resilience defeated the criminal cowards who thought they could break her will. Because she was a young woman, they assumed she would succumb to pressure. But it was her strength of character that far surpassed the weakness of her corrupt persecutors. She must be the major beneficiary of any settlement.
Secondly, while we appreciate that the current government—namely, its political executive—was in no way responsible for the criminal actions of certain functionaries of the previous regime who orchestrated this fabrication, it is now their duty to ensure adherence to the rule of law and the upholding of human rights. This includes holding to account and prosecuting those who violated the very core principles and values enshrined in our Constitution and laws. Accountability must extend to members of the former political executive as well as those functionaries who continue to serve at the pleasure of the current administration.
To ensure that no future government can so blatantly engage in criminality, the current leadership must make an example of those responsible. This is not optional—it is an obligation.
Thirdly, there must be a mutually agreed settlement for each of the victims of this crime. A one-size-fits-all approach will not suffice. Each individual must be approached and their unique experience and the level of reputational damage inflicted upon them properly assessed.
