Straight to the court, says Grammy Award winner Lebo M, after multiple attempts at peace talks, that Zimbabwean comedian Learnmore Mwanyenyekas snubbed.
The internationally acclaimed music producer filed a $27 million lawsuit in Los Angeles against the comedian over alleged cultural misrepresentation.
After extending an olive branch to Zimbabwean comedian and multiple attempts by his team, Lebo M is done being peaceful.
“Lebo M has consistently chosen dignity over noise,” said Tshepo Mboni, spokesperson to Lebo M.
“However, the continued refusal to engage in constructive discussions, coupled with ongoing public misrepresentation, leaves us with no alternative but to proceed through formal legal channels.”
Mwanyenyeka has publicly acknowledged the lawsuit; he posted on Instagram that he was getting sued for telling a “joke”, being served during a performance and setting up a GoFundMe to help with the legal battle.
“This is no longer discourse – it is a strategic attempt to pressure and mislead. We will not allow legacy, culture and intellectual property to be negotiated in the court of public opinion.”
Team Lebo M has confirmed that all avenues for amicable engagement have now been exhausted.
“We approached this matter with openness. That door has been closed repeatedly. We now move forward with clarity, focus and the full weight of the law behind us.”
With no amicable agreement in place, the focus has now shifted toward formal legal proceedings.
Meanwhile, Mwanyenyeka’s GoFundMe to help him fight the lawsuit has raised $22,863 (R392 795,70).
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