The courts have been busy this January for South African celebrities. Appearing today at the Randburg Magistrate's Court was former artist manager Nhlamulo "Nota' Baloyi (34) on charges of rape. Nota was released on R5000 bail after his arrest following actress Itumeleng Bokaba opened a rape case against him last year. His case has been postponed to 14 February 2025 for additional statements made by the alleged victim.

FRUSTRATED

A little frustrated with the dragging case, Nota said he's determined to prove his innocence and clear his name. After his release from jail in October, Nota took to X to thank God for his freedom. "Thank you, Lord… Thank you all for the prayers and support. I've been granted bail. I will prove my innocence and I will comply with all the conditions placed on me by the Randburg Magistrate's Court,' he added. "My nightmare is over!" he wrote. One of his bail conditions was that he must not speak to the alleged victim.

THE EFFECTS

Itumeleng whose acting career spans over a decade is not backing down from proving that she was sexually assaulted by Nota. She said the incident affected every aspect of her life including career and mental wellness. "I also had to leave my job because of everything. That's how this whole thing has affected my life. It's been hectic," she told ZiMoja.