Mzwanele Nyhontso says he intends taking legal action against social commentator Phakel’umthakathi over allegations made about him during recent public discussions.
Nyhontso claims that Phakel’umthakathi accused him of mistreating black people on farms and alleged that he was removing black residents and replacing them with white people.
The Minister has strongly rejected the claims, describing them as false and damaging to his reputation.
According to Nyhontso, the allegations have created a misleading impression about his conduct and the work of the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development.
He says he is now consulting on legal steps to challenge the statements and hold Phakel’umthakathi accountable for the remarks.
The dispute comes amid heightened tensions and public debate around land reform, farm occupations and issues relating to race and land ownership in South Africa.
Phakel’umthakathi has been one of several public figures making strong comments on issues relating to foreign nationals, land and government policy, often attracting significant attention on social media.
It remains unclear when legal proceedings may be instituted, but Nyhontso has indicated that he is determined to pursue the matter through the courts.
