By Phenyo Selinda
Johannesburg, 4 July 2024 – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has withdrawn all charges against television presenter and rapper Molemo Katlego Maarohanye, popularly known as Jub Jub.
Court Proceedings and Legal Context
Jub Jub last appeared in court on 13 June 2024, where his case was postponed to allow for further deliberation by the State. The rapper had requested more details about the alleged offences, specifically the dates and locations. Prosecutor Agnes Bezuidenhout confirmed that the State needed to consult with witnesses to provide the requested information.
Previously, Jub Jub’s legal representative, Ntsako Baloyi, had sought a postponement in November to obtain further particulars from the State. NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane clarified that the requested particulars included the dates and places of the alleged incidents.
Charges and Allegations
Maarohanye was facing serious charges, including three counts of rape, two counts of attempted murder, and one count of assault. He had been released on R100,000 bail pending the outcome of the investigation.
The allegations first came to light when well-known actress Amanda Du-Pont claimed she endured two years of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse while in a relationship with Jub Jub. This prompted other women, including broadcaster Masechaba Khumalo, to come forward with similar accusations.
NPA’s Decision
In a statement, the NPA explained the rationale behind the withdrawal of charges. The decision followed a thorough review of the police case docket, the prosecutor’s report, and additional information submitted by Jub Jub’s defence team to the DPP.
“The office of the DPP concluded that there are no reasonable prospects of a successful prosecution. As a result, the sensible thing to do was to withdraw the charges of rape, attempted murder, and assault against Maarohanye,” the NPA stated.
The charges originated from a complaint filed by Jub Jub’s ex-girlfriend in February 2022, alleging that the offences occurred between 2006 and 2009. Following her public statement on social media, three other women came forward with similar claims. A warrant of arrest was subsequently issued, leading to Jub Jub’s voluntary appearance in the Johannesburg Magistrates’ Court, where he was released on R10,000 bail.
Public Reaction and Statements
Jub Jub had previously expressed regret for his past actions, stating that his time in incarceration had taught him valuable life lessons. Despite this, the allegations and subsequent legal battles have significantly impacted his public image and career.
NPA’s Stance on Sexual Violence
The NPA emphasized its commitment to addressing allegations of sexual violence with utmost seriousness. However, it also highlighted the necessity of having relevant and admissible evidence to sustain charges. “The NPA views all allegations of sexual violence in a serious light and does not hesitate to adopt an aggressive stance towards them, but only where there is relevant and admissible evidence that can sustain the charges. Unfortunately, in this case, upon further assessment of available evidence, there were no prospects of a successful prosecution hence the withdrawal of charges,” the statement concluded.
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