South African media icon Somizi responds to Ngizwe Mchunu’s homophobic remarks that went viral earlier this month. The outspoken entertainer shared a dignified yet powerful message that has since drawn praise from supporters and civil society groups nationwide.
Background: Ngizwe Mchunu’s Controversial Comments
In early October, Ngizwe Mchunu made headlines for a now-deleted video in which he criticised a gay couple’s traditional Zulu wedding. One of the grooms wore full Zulu regalia, prompting Mchunu to attack both the couple and the broader LGBTQIA+ community.
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Mchunu said:
“You guys are taking the power in our warrior attire and sleeping with each other. A man that sleeps with another man is rubbish. Somizi must take his people and leave this country, South Africa.”
The comments spread rapidly on social media, garnering more than one million views before deletion. The video sparked widespread outrage and condemnation from human rights groups and the public alike.
Somizi Responds to Ngizwe Mchunu with Dignity and Insight
In a heartfelt Instagram video, Somizi responds to Ngizwe Mchunu not with anger, but with reflection. The “Idols SA” judge said he viewed the controversy as a learning opportunity rather than a moment for retaliation.
“There was a huge opportunity to educate each other that was missed,” Somizi said.
“With all the anger and the noise, I found something to learn from. It was a teachable moment for me.”
He explained that he had learned that certain traditional Zulu garments are reserved for royal families, and that understanding must be respected. However, he cautioned against using the issue to fuel hate or division within the community.
A Call for Unity, Not Retaliation
Somizi encouraged members of the LGBTQIA+ community to rise above the negativity and act with integrity.
“There are people saying they will buy the attire out of spite, and I’m saying, let’s not do that. Two wrongs don’t make a right,” he said.
His response balanced cultural sensitivity with a firm rejection of discrimination, reinforcing his reputation as a voice for peace and inclusion in South Africa’s entertainment landscape.
Condemnation and Legal Action Against Mchunu
The United Democratic Movement (UDM) has lodged a formal complaint with the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC). The complaint accuses Mchunu of hate speech, incitement to violence, and ethnic mobilisation targeting LGBTQIA+ South Africans.
According to the UDM’s Mxolisi Makhubu:
“His recent utterances, although since deleted, garnered more than one million views online, with hundreds of comments openly calling for the public execution of queer people.”
The SAHRC confirmed it has received the complaint and will communicate the outcome once the assessment concludes.
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South Africa’s Legal Stand on Hate Speech
Under the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act (PEPUDA) and the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act (2023), any act that incites hatred or violence based on sexual orientation constitutes an offence.
Legal experts have noted that Mchunu could face civil and criminal penalties if found guilty. The South African Human Rights Commission has reiterated that freedom of expression does not extend to hate speech or threats.
Public Reaction and Social Media Response
Many South Africans applauded Somizi’s calm and educational response. Social media users hailed him as an example of resilience, empathy, and leadership. Public figures, including journalists and fellow celebrities, have also condemned Mchunu’s remarks while praising Somizi’s poise.
The incident has reignited conversations around LGBTQIA+ representation, cultural respect, and the boundaries of free speech in a democratic society.
A Teachable Moment for the Nation
Somizi’s response shows that strength can coexist with compassion. By turning a hateful attack into a lesson on understanding and mutual respect, he reminded South Africans of the importance of dialogue over division.
“We live in a country where everyone has the human right to be who they want to be, anywhere, anytime,” Somizi said.
As the SAHRC investigates, this moment stands as a reminder that progress depends not on shouting louder, but on listening, learning, and leading with humanity.
