Women For Change faces scandal and legal action

Women For Change (WFC), a women’s advocacy group, are involved in controversy and cyberbullying following their petition to prevent US singer Chris Brown from performing in the country.

In response to the backlash, the organisation has decided to pursue legal action against several individuals they claim have made defamatory statements.

In a statement to IOL, WFC emphasised that the allegations circulating online are “completely false and baseless.” — Musa Khawula (@Musa_Khawula) October 19, 2024.

One individual on social media claimed to have visited the WFC website and found suspicious information. He accused the non-profit of being a cover for a private business and questioned the legality of the organisation’s founder residing in South Africa.

 

“There is something really shady about this organisation… Why would a German feminist start a non-profit in South Africa? Historically, when Europeans come to African countries to promote social justice, it often hides something more sinister,” he stated.

WFC’s director, Sabrina Walter, responded to these claims, saying that “these lies” have caused significant damage to the organisation, its team, and the communities it supports.

Walter expressed her dismay over how misinformation can quickly spread and be accepted without regard for the truth.

“We have been accused of things that directly contradict our mission and values, as well as the years of hard work we’ve put into this cause,” she said.

 

She also voiced concern for the community that relies on WFC for support, noting that the organisation’s inbox is now filled with hate messages and threats, disrupting their vital work.

The online discussion remains heated, with some people backing Walter and WFC while others amplify Khawula’s accusations.

One user on X (formerly Twitter) highlighted that the “Catch Me If You Can” (CMIYC) organisation and WFC are the same, defending Walter’s intentions and clarifying that WFC is a non-profit organisation, not a private company.

“We are taking strong legal action to protect Women For Change and our reputation,” Walter stated. ‘

“My attorneys are managing both criminal and civil cases against individuals responsible for spreading defamatory content.” She reaffirmed her lifelong commitment to the cause, insisting that WFC will not be silenced by falsehoods or hate.

Walter questioned, “Where is the energy from these individuals when women and children are being abused, raped, and slaughtered? Where is that same energy when it comes to finding missing children or advocating for justice?”

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