Ziyakhala: Kelly Khumalo Apologizes for Homophobic remarks Amidst SAMA Awards Fallout

Instagram image| Kelly Khumalo and Somizi Mhlongo
Special moments 👏🏽🐆🤴🏾photographed by
 @edward_kekana dressed by @tsotetsikl

South African songstress Kelly Khumalo, widely known as the "Voice of Africa," has recently been caught in a whirlwind of controversy following the 17th November 2023 SAMA29 awards, where she expressed dissatisfaction over not winning. Taking to her social media platform, the artist, known for her powerful vocals, alleged that the awards were rigged and that she deserved the win against Ntokozo Mbambo. Khumalo boldly claimed, "People know the truth; numbers don't lie," suggesting she had been unjustly robbed of a deserved victory.

Deleted Tweets

Angenesabi NONKE!

— The Voice Of Africa (@KellyKhumaloZA) November 18, 2023

In a series of tweets, she employed strong language, including the phrase "FUSEG Nonke" and asserted, "Angenesabi Nonke FUSEG!" insinuating frustration and discontent with the perceived injustice of the awards. Some social media users linked her lack of success to the spirit of Senzo Meyiwa, while others hinted that her fortunes wouldn't change until she faced unresolved issues, including accusations related to the death of Senzo Meyiwa.

Stop deleting bangers 😭 pic.twitter.com/x77mJvkusr

— The Pullout King (@Dr_Aftermath_) November 19, 2023

Ningibonge nonke seniyatrenda…. Sekukhuluma nabanye engasoze bayinuke iHit nomasebezama ngoba izinhliziyo zabo zingcolile…. 👏🏽

— The Voice Of Africa (@KellyKhumaloZA) November 19, 2023

The controversy further intensified when Khumalo engaged in a heated argument with a member of the LGBTQ+ community, expressing a viewpoint that garnered criticism for being insensitive. In response, she stated, "we will have that conversation once you decide your a man or woman." This statement drew significant backlash from the public, highlighting the responsibility that comes with being a public figure and the potential consequences of making controversial statements. 

Okusalayo uwrong wena kule-Acrimony 🌚🌚🌚

— uPERCY°🏳️‍🌈 (@uMluNyokana) November 19, 2023

 

Amid the criticism, Khumalo's close friends reportedly called her into order. In a tweet, she acknowledged, "My friends dealt with me proper😂 kodwa Lou’s Percy sozohlangana…," although she did not explicitly name those in her inner circle who played a role in holding her accountable.

The comments section on her social media posts reflected a mix of reactions, with some users expressing disappointment over her remarks. One commenter asserted, "You made wild remarks, left them, and had all sorts of follow-up homophobic and hateful remarks made and not once did you think of the consequence of your actions." In response to the growing outcry, Khumalo took the decision to delete the controversial tweet and issued a public apology. She expressed remorse, stating, "Ngonile with my homophobic remarks ngiyaxolisa that was uncalled for." The deletion and subsequent apology suggest a recognition of the gravity of her words and a commitment to rectifying the situation.

Ngonile with my homophobic remarks ngiyaxolisa that was uncalled for.

— The Voice Of Africa (@KellyKhumaloZA) November 19, 2023

While Khumalo did not explicitly reveal who in her circle called her into order, speculation arose, with many pointing to Somizi Mhlongo, a known friend and part of the LGBTQ+ community. The incident underscores the challenges faced by public figures in navigating sensitive issues and the impact of their statements on both their personal reputation and professional relationships.

I’m sorry but lo ungisukele https://t.co/dP6Yhe2hiU

— The Voice Of Africa (@KellyKhumaloZA) November 19, 2023