Philanthropist BI Phakathi has defended his decision to show support to Lulama, a woman caught stealing nappies in a viral video. And he’s not the only one – Lady Du and several charity activists have also to criticism.

 

 

Over the weekend, a clip of the young mom being publicly admonished in a Jet clothing store had social media users up in arms

Since the clip aired over the weekend, several figures have come to Lulama’s assistance with monetary and grocery donations. But Twitter –– users have accused them of “promoting crime” instead.BI PHAKATHI DEFENDS LOVE TO LULAMA
In the clip that went viral, a young woman was seen being humiliated by store employees for stealing a pack of Huggies nappies. The woman – now identified as Lulama – had concealed the items underneath her clothes in her desperate attempt to evade capture.

In the spirit of Ubuntu, many Twitter – or X – users reached out to offer help to the woman.

This included Youth Unite Foundation NGO activist Tlangi Michelle and hitmaker Lady Du. Through generous donations from charity and the public, Lulama received a mini-van full of nappies, groceries, and clothing delivered to her doorstep.

The post attracted the attention of BI Phakathi, who is known for his generous donations to the less privileged.

He tweeted: “The power of Ubuntu”.Sadly, BI Phakathi’s seemingly pure intentions had many Twitter – or X.com users – calling him out for “promoting crime” in SA.

Politely responding, the mysterious Good Samaritan defended his words. He tweeted: “The one without a sin let him be the first to throw a stone at her John 8:7”.

Phakathi’s Biblical passage post was a reference to those who condemned Lulama for committing a crime.
Meanwhile, Lady Du and Tlangi Michelle also defended their actions – and Lulama – against critics.

Michelle tweeted that the public should extend kindness and not judgement to the woman. She posted: “We can still, through our laws, reprimand, rehabilitate, and help the latter mother to realise that her choices were wrong so she can mend them. Then lose so many lives because we are a hateful nation that can’t afford our own a second chance.