‘The justice system is fair’: Siqokoqela Mphoko breaks his silence after rape charge acquittal

SIQOKOQELA Mphoko, the son of former Vice-President Phelekezela Mphoko, has broken his silence after being acquitted of rape charges that could have resulted in a 20-year prison sentence.

In an exclusive interview yesterday, Mphoko opened up about the turbulent events that had a profound impact on his life and family.

Reflecting on the challenging ordeal he and his family endured, he said the accusations and subsequent trial not only threatened his freedom but also brought immense emotional distress to his family.

“I found myself harbouring bitter and hostile feelings towards those closest to me as the weight of public scrutiny bore down on us,” he said.

The acquittal marks a turning point for Siqokoqela who faced severe backlash as the allegations surfaced, tarnishing his reputation and casting a shadow of doubt over his innocence.

Following the legal proceedings, Mphoko has expressed relief at the court’s verdict and emphasised his gratitude for the support he received during the tumultuous period.

“I feel that the justice system, especially the High Court, seeks real justice and is fair. They look at the facts on merit, and according to the law,” he said.

His decision to speak out marks a poignant moment in his journey, as he navigates the aftermath of the court’s verdict.

“I feel that society went out of its way to judge me and persecute me and my family. As a family and God-fearing, as well as praying man, I kept my head up and went about my day-to-day business as I knew I was innocent,” said Siqokoqela.

He accused a close family member of fabricating the allegations that led to him being convicted and sentenced.

“However, people I knew for over 20 years believed her lies without even knowing her or her motives. The community as a whole was very judgemental and offered no support to me and my family,” said Mphoko.

“The swimming community was the worst. They spoke behind my back and those who saw an opportunity to try and get rid of my presence went for it.”

He said some of the members of the Bulawayo Amateur Swimming Association (BASA) tried to have him expelled from the association.

“The same individuals who spoke about us behind our backs came to my wife with devil smiles and forks pretending to be sympathetic. My children were bullied and ridiculed to a point, we had to remove them from the schools they so loved,” said Mphoko.

“My wife was left to endure public shame and emotional trauma while trying to support me through this nightmare,” he added.

He said his family was vilified by society, even when the case had not been concluded.

“People were quick to turn their backs on me and my family and I bore the brunt of that isolation. It’s heartbreaking to think that innocent children had to be uprooted from their lives due to the lies of one person,” said Siqokoqela.

He said despite being acquitted the damage had been done and has greatly and negatively affected his business ventures and reputation.

“The business deals I lost during this time can never be recovered and the trust I had built over the years with many institutions and individuals has been eroded,” said Siqokoqela.

He said during the course of the trial that lasted two years, he was in a constant state of shock and depression which affected his health.

“When I was wrongly prosecuted, the first thing that came to mind was that my wife and children were exposed. I felt dead and useless. My daughter was still 12, and my son was 11. My wife was as confused as I was. My wife and I told each other that we needed to be strong to fight the case as we only had God on our side,” said Mphoko.

He said he remembered vividly how he was placed into shackles and moved to the underground holding cells after he was sentenced in court.

“With 20 years on my shoulders, I asked myself when and how I was going to see my family. On the day of sentencing when I left home, I told my children I would see them later.

“And when I was sentenced my wife was tasked with the burden of telling them that I had been sentenced to 20 years in jail,” he said.

Siqokoqela said after he was sentenced many questions started racing in his mind as he pondered the welfare of his family.

“I was asking myself questions like: ‘How would my children face their peers at school? Would I ever be able to tell my children I love them? Will I ever walk my daughter down the aisle? What about my children’s education and their swimming? How will my wife earn a living?” he said.

Siqokoqela said the journey to Khami Prison was long and rough.

“I did not want to believe that this was the end. The one thing I have always held pride in is my dignity and integrity. I would not let this lie be the end of my lineage,” said Siqokoqela.

Despite the vindication provided by the court’s decision, Mphoko acknowledged the profound impact the events had on his relationships and mental well-being.

As he navigates the aftermath of the trial, Siqokoqela said he remains committed to rebuilding trust and moving forward with a renewed sense of purpose.

Going forward, Siqokoqela said he is focused on reclaiming his life and restoring his reputation, determined to emerge from this experience with new-found strength and resilience.

He expressed his hope for understanding and empathy from the public as he embarks on the journey of healing and reconciliation.