Ntsiki Mazwai apologises for recent damning allegations

Poet Ntsiki Mazwai is trending after she issued an apology to Unathi Nkayi and the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie after she made some damning remarks online against the two.

Social media was abuzz after Ntsiki Mazwai accused the minister and government of corruption after Unathi Nkayi was included on the list of 15 South African authors who participated in the Havana Book Fair in Cuba.

CUBA BOOK FAIR SELECTION DRAMA

In a string of damning posts, she questioned how Unathi Nkayi made it on the list while she was not a ‘best-selling author.’

Ntsiki Mazwai discredited Unathi Nkayi’s credentials and made it known that she was not an author.

“They chose someone who isn’t even a writer or poet. Cuba specifically asked for us. Unathi is not a writer, Ntsiki Mazwai posted.

She also alleged that the celebrated media personality was given special treatment, including flying business class and being booked into a 5-star hotel.

Ntsiki Mazwai made it known that others were booked in 3-star hotels. However, against her allegations, Unathi Nkayi opened up about their fallout, which dates back to 2002.

The media personality said, “In 2002, two days after I hosted the SAMAs, she found my number and called me. I had never met her, had never spoken to her, and did not know of her until then.

“She accused me of stealing her designs whilst I hosted the awards.”

On the other hand, the minister threatened her with legal action, making it known that ‘she had gone too far.’

He threatened legal action against the poet, saying,  “Ntsiki, you have made very serious allegations against me, very slanderous.

“I will take you to court. You will have a perfect opportunity to show the court of law your evidence.” Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie added, “You have gone very far this time.”

NTSIKI MAZWAI APOLOGISES

However, against the threat, Ntsiki Mazwai issued a public apology.

Part of her apology post reads, “I would like to sincerely apologise for my recent post. Upon further consideration, I realise that the comments made were not only inappropriate but may have caused unnecessary harm and confusion.”

Ntsiki Mazwai added, “While the intention was to express frustration, I understand that such statements can be misinterpreted or damaging, and for that, I apologise.”

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