Socialite Lawyer placed on special leave amid assault allegations
By EDN Reporter
Prominent lawyer and poet Sbulelo Jele has been placed on special leave from his law firm following allegations by his girlfriend that he assaulted her, resulting in her hospitalisation.
The claims surfaced on social media on Monday morning, where the alleged victim posted a detailed account of the incident, stating she had “tolerated so much in the name of love” and could no longer remain silent.
In her Facebook post, she also shared graphic images showing severe bruising and swelling to her face and body, allegedly taken while she was hospitalised. The images have been widely circulated online, drawing strong reactions from the public.
Hundreds of Facebook users have commented on the post, calling for Jele’s arrest and urging authorities to take swift action.
Several users tagged local law enforcement and women’s rights organisations, demanding that the case be treated as a matter of urgency.
In a statement released on Monday, S.M. Jele Attorneys confirmed that Jele had been suspended from his duties while an internal investigation takes place.
“We acknowledge the seriousness of the matter and extend our thoughts to the affected parties involved during this difficult time,” the statement read.
“While Sbulelo Jele, like any individual, deserves the benefit of due process, we do not condone any form of Gender-Based Violence. In the interest of transparency and fairness, Jele has been placed on special leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation and any related legal processes.” further read the statement.
The firm added that it would cooperate fully with the relevant authorities. When contacted for comment, Jele did not respond.
Gender-based violence advocacy group SWAGGA issued a public message of support to the alleged victim, encouraging her and others in similar situations to seek help.
“We are deeply sorry for what you’ve been through. What happened is not your fault, and you do not have to go through this alone,” the group said, providing its toll-free helpline, 951, for confidential counselling. Police are yet to confirm whether a formal complaint has been filed.
