‘It killed my career’ – Mangaliso Ngema on withdrawn rape charges

Seasoned actor Mangaliso Ngema has been cleared of the rape charges against his relative. The NPA withdrew the case after the evidence proved that there were no “prospects of a successful prosecution”.

The former Lithapo star told TshisaLive that he expected the case to be withdrawn even though it took some time. He also shared that he had to explore other avenues to make ends meet amid the court battle.

“I’m really relieved because it’s not nice being dragged to court and having to stand in front of a magistrate. It’s so embarrassing and so demeaning for someone like me who’s in the film industry. This thing put a final nail in my coffin, and it killed my career in a bad way,” he told the publication.

‘The pain has been real‘

Taking to Instagram to celebrate his victory, Mangaliso said that even though the charges have been dropped, his personal brand has been destroyed.

“The pain has been real, and I do not wish it on my worst enemy. People have judged and doubted me without knowing the person I am. I’ve learned that, as people, we love celebrating each other’s downfall. It’s an aberration that must be eradicated,” he said.

He added that he does not believe men are safe in the country, and wrapped up his lengthy post with gratitude messages to his family, friends, legal team, and everyone that believed in him during what he refers to as the toughest time of his life.

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A post shared by Mangaliso J Ngema (@mangaliso_ngema)

ALSO READ: Mangaliso Ngema back on TV after harassment scandal

Lithapo fires Mangaliso Ngema

In 2020, the seasoned actor was fired from the SABC’s hit show Lithapo after a co-star accused him of sexual harassment.

Giving his side of the story in a now-deleted Facebook post, Mangaliso admitted that he was out of line, especially at a time when the country faced a GBV pandemic.

“I am not going to deny any allegations levelled against my name. I will take full responsibility for the sexual harassment case,” he added.

However, in an attempt to clear his name, he later explained that his offers to massage female staff were misunderstood. He highlighted that he is a licensed masseuse. He also added that he had a wardrobe malfunction at work which caused him to constantly fidget with his genital area for comfort.

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