Here's what we know about the 'brawl' between Mapaseka Mokwele and her longtime friend that got her fired

Mapaseka Mokwele's 15-year friendship has hit rock bottom after Wits Business School (WBS) terminated her contract over assault allegations made by her friend.

After failed attempts to resolve the matter privately, their case has now escalated to the High Court.

Here's what we know:

According to court papers seen by TshisaLIVE, last September the radio personality and her friend Thandi Makubele attended a fundraising conference in Cape Town where Thandi allegedly “elected to broadcast various personal and sensitive details” about Mapaseka, previously shared in confidence, during the presentation. 

During a private dinner, Thandi allegedly informed a waiter who had recognised Mapaseka about her “social standing and influence”.

Mapaseka allegedly responded to the incident by reminding Thandi not to disclose or boast about her “personal information” and “social standing” which she says she reiterated on numerous occasions before the event.

With Thandi disregarding her plea to stop, Mapaseka allegedly “gently nudged” Thandi's knee with her foot under the table and referred to a text message she had sent speaking of her discomfort about her actions.

“You know I really hate that. And you insist on doing it all the time. I'm really upset,” read the message.

After the incident, Mapaseka received an email from a human resources office employee at WBS informing her a case of assault had been opened against her.

Another email was from a WBS professor which stated the matter was to be discussed separately to establish the facts.

In the emails, Thandi in her response attached alleged pictures of “bruises” she sustained on her right leg which she claims to have been taken an hour after the alleged incident.

Thandi, however, failed to attend the virtual and in-person meetings that were arranged, which led to Mapaseka not being able to plead her case and call witnesses in a hearing.

The radio personality's further participation at the conference was terminated with immediate effect and she was later informed WBS would not renew her contract.

Mapaseka claims Thandi's “malicious and defamatory” allegations caused her reputation harm and R250,000 worth of damages.

TshisaLIVE reached out to Thandi but she declined to comment. 

Mapaseka said she preferred to not speak on the matter as it was sub judice.

Support independent journalism by subscribing to the Sunday Times. Just R20 for the first month.