'Kissmore' avoids jail over cyberbullying case

A Harare woman known on social media as Kissmore Soko has avoided a custodial sentence after being convicted of cyberbullying a local businesswoman.

Princess Phiri, who uses the online name Kissmore Soko, was ordered to perform 210 hours of community service after pleading guilty to harassing Zodwa Mkandla on social media.

Phiri appeared before Harare magistrate Micheal Mafukidze earlier this week and was initially remanded for sentencing after admitting to the offence.

The court sentenced her to 12 months in prison. However, six months of the sentence were suspended on condition that she does not commit a similar offence within the next five years.

The remaining six months were also suspended on condition that she completes 210 hours of community service at Glen Norah Poly Clinic.

The charges stem from a viral TikTok video in which Phiri allegedly hurled insults at Mkandla, her daughter Mello and her partner, Denzel Tadiwa Maveve.

In the video, Phiri reportedly unleashed a barrage of insults directed at the trio, including abusive remarks targeting Mkandla's daughter.

Prosecutor Kanchelskis Ropi told the court that Mkandla came across the TikTok video last Wednesday in which Phiri insulted the businesswoman using highly offensive language and derogatory remarks.

The comments, which included calling Mkandla a prostitute and making insulting remarks about her daughter, prompted the businesswoman to file criminal charges.

The case has drawn attention on social media, highlighting the legal consequences of online harassment and cyberbullying in Zimbabwe.