Former Lupane State University lecturer files US$100,000 defamation suit

A former senior lecturer at Lupane State University (LSU), Dr. Keith Phiri, has filed a US$100,000 defamation lawsuit against his former employer, claiming that an advertisement published by the university in August 2024 has tarnished his reputation.

The legal action, initiated through his lawyer Mlweli Ndlovu of Mlweli Ndlovu and Associates, targets LSU over an advertisement that appeared in the Sunday Mail and its sister publication. Dr. Phiri alleges that the content of the advert suggested he was involved in illegal activities and posed a danger to society, leading to damage to his professional and personal reputation.

Defamation Claims

According to the lawsuit, Dr. Phiri contends that the advertisement contained wording that misled readers into believing he was engaged in criminal behavior. The advertisement, published shortly after he left LSU, stated that Dr. Phiri had departed the university to pursue other opportunities and advised that any interactions with him should be regarded as personal and not university-related.

Dr. Phiri argues that the phrasing used in the advertisement was understood by readers as defamatory, inviting professional shunning. He claims that the publication of the statement led to numerous inquiries from both local and international parties regarding his alleged criminal conduct.

"I believe the words in the context of the article were wrongful and defamatory," Dr. Phiri said, emphasizing that the advertisement severely impacted his academic and professional standing. "The reach of the advertisement, both physically and online, exacerbated the damage to my reputation and career prospects."

Dr. Phiri further alleges that the defamation was so severe that it significantly harmed his reputation within academic circles and led to a loss of professional opportunities. As a result, he is seeking US$100,000 in damages for the harm caused.

LSU's Defence

In its defense, LSU, represented by the law firm Calderwood, Bryce Hendrie, and Partners, acknowledged publishing the advertisement but argued that the content was accurate and in the public interest. The university contends that the publication was necessary to inform the public that Dr. Phiri was no longer affiliated with LSU and that his actions should not be interpreted as representative of the university.

The university's lawyers assert that the advertisement was intended to clarify Dr. Phiri's departure and not to defame him. They further argue that the statement did not suggest that Dr. Phiri was a danger to society, as he claims.

In addition, LSU disputes Dr. Phiri's demand for damages in US dollars, noting that Zimbabwe's official currency is the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) and not foreign currency.

Legal Proceedings

The case is set to be heard in the High Court in Bulawayo, where both parties will make verbal submissions. A judgment will be delivered following the proceedings, which are expected to shed light on whether the advertisement was indeed defamatory and whether Dr. Phiri is entitled to the compensation he seeks.

As the lawsuit moves through the courts, both LSU and Dr. Phiri are preparing for a potentially landmark decision that could set a precedent for similar defamation claims in the country.