Charlene Fakoury has broken her silence after a gossip page circulated claims that she had been spotted getting cosy with DJ Shimza, firmly denying any romantic or intimate relationship with the popular DJ.
The allegations, which have been circulating on social media, suggested that Shimza and Fakoury were spotted leaving CÉ LA VI in Johannesburg together. The pair were also allegedly seen getting cosy at Tightline on Thursday.
However, Fakoury has dismissed the claims as false, expressing concern over the damage the allegations could cause to her reputation and personal life.
Charlene breaks her silence
In a statement responding to the allegations, Fakoury said she had no personal or romantic relationship with the DJ.
“I categorically deny these allegations, as they are completely false and without factual basis. I am not friends with the gentleman in question, nor have I ever been romantically or intimately involved with him. Being seen in the same social environment as someone does not justify such damaging assumptions,” she said.
Fakoury also rejected any suggestion that she would knowingly involve herself in a situation that could threaten another woman’s relationship or family.
“I have always respected institutions of marriage, the importance of stable homes and the sanctity of family. I would never knowingly involve myself in circumstances that could compromise another woman’s marriage or disrupt her home,” she added.
Says Athi Geleba deserves respect
The rumours have attracted attention partly because of Shimza’s long-term relationship with Athi Geleba, with whom he has reportedly been involved for approximately 13 years.
Fakoury said she genuinely admires and respects Geleba, adding that she was concerned about the potential impact of unverified claims on the public figure’s personal life.
“What makes it particularly upsetting is that Athi is a woman I genuinely admire and respect and look up to. Considering her responsibilities in public service and governance, I find the timing of these allegations deeply concerning, especially during a politically sensitive period,” she said.
“Have we considered the unnecessary strain such unverified claims could place on her marriage, family and personal well-being?”
Geleba has not been quoted in connection with the allegations in the information available for this report.
Fakoury objects to ‘hookup girl’ label
Fakoury also took issue with the derogatory description used to refer to her in the gossip post, saying it was disrespectful and damaging to her dignity.
“Furthermore, I find the derogatory description of me as a ‘hookup girl’ deeply disrespectful and damaging to my dignity. I am a young woman in my own relationship, living my life privately, and I refuse to have my character defined by baseless speculation,” she said.
She called on the gossip page to retract the statement, warning that she could consider legal action if the matter was not addressed.
“I do not mind people having opinions about me, but publishing false allegations without evidence is irresponsible and unacceptable,” she said.
Social media speculation sparks questions
The claims have fuelled speculation online about Shimza and Fakoury’s alleged outings. However, the reported sightings alone do not establish that the pair are romantically involved, and Fakoury has explicitly denied any such relationship.
Her response also raises questions about the consequences of publishing unverified claims about people’s private lives, particularly when those claims involve public figures and their partners.
For now, Fakoury maintains that the allegations are false and has made it clear that she will not allow social media speculation to define her character.
