Nandipha Magudumana, the celebrity aesthetics doctor, is facing serious accusations alongside her alleged romantic partner Thabo Bester.
Their latest court appearance on Wednesday, 5 June, in the Free State High Court has sparked a frenzy on social media, with many speculating that e.tv’s “Scandal!” should offer her an acting job because of her courtroom antics.
Laughing or Crying? Nandipha’s Courtroom Antics Go Viral
In the courtroom, Nandipha Magudumana’s theatrics stole the show. As her co-accused Thabo Bester protested about his treatment in prison, Magudumana was seen laughing, crying, and closing her eyes. Clips of her emotional display quickly circulated online, earning her both praise and ridicule for her “acting skills.”
One social media user commented, “@GustavoNinela: Nandipha is trying so hard to cry, but the tears are not coming out. South Africa is a movie.” Another added, “@Sedeaux_S: And the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in a Criminal Role goes to….. Nandipha Magudumana. Her tears didn’t even want to be involved in this circus.”
The Charges and Accusations
Nandipha Magudumana and Thabo Bester, along with seven others, are charged with assisting in Bester’s prison escape, fraud, corruption, and desecrating Despite the serious nature of the charges, the courtroom antics have diverted some attention from the gravity of their alleged crimes. Their next court appearance is scheduled for 24 July.
Public Sympathy or Manipulation?
Since her arrest last year, Magudumana has been accused of using public sympathy to her advantage. She has often been seen in court reading the Bible, praying, and singing gospel songs, which many believe is an attempt to portray herself as a devout and respectable woman.
Claims of Abuse
In one of her court appearances last August, Magudumana broke down in tears as her attorney claimed that Bester had forced her to flee the country with him. Magudumana has repeatedly worn her diamond wedding ring, emphasizing her role as a respectable mother and married woman.
Shortly after her arrest in Tanzania alongside Bester, an audio clip went viral in which Bester allegedly verbally abused and threatened to . Further reports from Sunday World suggested that Bester had physically assaulted Magudumana at her birthday party in 2022.
Thabo Bester’s Defense
Thabo Bester has been vocal in defending Magudumana and their co-accused, insisting they are innocent. Addressing Judge Cagney Musi, Bester said, “It’s unfair for these people who are sitting here to be in court. When I know very well that they have nothing to do with this. They were not present in any of these issues. Release these people…they know nothing.”
Innocent or Accomplice?
The Showmax documentary “Tracking Thabo Bester,” which aired in March, explores Magudumana’s alleged involvement in Bester’s criminal activities. The high-profile doctor is accused of helping Bester fake his death in 2022, claiming multiple dead bodies, posing as his customary wife, and hiding him in her Hyde Park home. The documentary also suggests that Magudumana, with Bester’s assistance, ran fraudulent businesses and events, deceiving numerous people, including medical colleague Dr. Pashy.
As the legal proceedings continue, the public remains divided on whether Nandipha Magudumana is a victim of circumstance or a willing accomplice in Thabo Bester’s elaborate schemes. Only time will reveal the truth behind the courtroom drama.
Catch the next episodes of “Scandal!” on e.tv, airing Monday to Friday at 19h30, for more on this gripping case.