SABC2’s hit show “Lithapo” former actor actor Mangaliso Ngema has released a statement addressing the sexual misconduct claims that have been laid against him.
Lorraine Moropa recently lodged the sexual harassment case against Ngema and she had back up on social media personalities because they were not about to watch another victim of sexual assault die in silent.
The veteran actor took to Facebook and in a statement that has since been deleted, he apologised to Lorraine Moropa and other women who allegedly suffered abuse at his hands. He also apologised to his family, stating that he takes full responsibility for his actions.
He wrote: “I am not going to deny any allegations levelled against my name. I will take full responsibility for the sexual harassment case. I apologize to Miss Lorraine Moropa and others for the abuse I directed towards them.”
He continued: “As a senior professional and a fatherly figure. I was out of line. In this time when a country is fighting the GBV pandemic. I apologize to my family, all the cast members and Quizzical Pictures for bringing the set to disrepute. I take responsibility and I take the fall I deserve.”
The Facebook post has since been deleted. Picture: Facebook screenshot
The production company which produces the SABC2’s the show “Lithapo”, Quizzical Pictures confirmed that the actor’s contract has been terminated.
Their initial statement that they released said that they have “resolved the issue on the Lithapo set. “The actress concerned is comfortable with the outcome. We would like to thank the cast and crew for their patience. Quizzical Pictures remains committed to creating a fair and respectful workplace for all our cast and crew.” The production company confirmed that it had taken the decision to remove the actor from production with immediate effect.
In a statement posted on social media, Morapa said she is happy about the company’s decision and she also explained that she had previously lodged a complaint against the perpetrator, but nothing was done at the time.
In her statement, Lorraine encouraged fellow female stars to keep reporting these acts of sexual abuse until perpetrators are dealt with accordingly.
Main Image: Mbare Times
