Lee

"It's a Legal Matter, Not a Social Media Competition", Gilbert Promotions Rubbishes Makhadzi Kidnapping Rumours After Court Confiscates Passport Gilbert Promotions has strongly refuted viral social media allegations that South African music superstar Makhadzi has been kidnapped in Botswana, clarifying that her current containment is the result of a legitimate, urgent High Court order. The entertainment promotion powerhouse broke its silence following a wave of online panic, revealing that the legal standoff stems from an alleged breach of contract regarding Makhadzi's highly anticipated "One Woman Show," which was scheduled to take place on 12 September 2026. Gilbert Promotions confirmed that the High Court of Botswana issued a genuine order compelling the award-winning artist to surrender her passport. The order further dictates that she remain in custody pending a formal court hearing scheduled for 9 November 2026. "The public is encouraged to distinguish between the enforcement of a court order and allegations of kidnapping," the company stated, emphasising its strict adherence to Botswana's judicial processes. The promoter also took the opportunity to clear the air regarding a historic financial dispute linked to a 2022 event. Addressing accusations that funds had been mishandled, Gilbert Promotions denied ever directly receiving a payment of P1 million from Makhadzi or any joint venture. According to their records, the 2022 One Woman Show was the only event to generate revenue in that threshold. However, they clarified that the payouts were processed and distributed automatically by independent ticketing platform Webtickets directly into the respective accounts of Gilbert Promotions, Makhadzi, and her former label, Open Mic Productions. "Webtickets transaction records and financial statements should provide an objective account. Should any contrary allegations be made, we welcome the presentation of supporting documentary evidence," the statement read. With rumours compounding online, Gilbert Promotions warned that it is actively reviewing its legal options regarding defamation of character. The company stated that publicly accusing a business of "stealing a million pula" on massive social media platforms carries severe commercial consequences for a brand built over decades in the Botswana entertainment space. The promoters revealed that multiple attempts were made to resolve the contractual dispute out of court through dialogue and mutual respect, but those efforts ultimately failed, leaving them with no choice but to seek litigation. "Botswana is a country governed by the rule of law," the group concluded. "Every individual, regardless of popularity, nationality, or international standing, is expected to respect the laws and judicial processes of the Republic of Botswana. We believe that facts, evidence, and the rule of law should prevail."