Outspoken poet and singer Nontsikelelo “Ntsiki” Mazwai has slated the government for sidelining her during the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV campaign.
For me it has been 16 years of economic victimisation by the government, Mazwai vented on X on Thursday.
She shared a series of videos on the social media platform, saying she has lost confidence in some of the state institutions.
“I was approached about a gig for Brand SA for 16-days of activism. And those of you who are familiar with the Ntsiki Mazwai brand you know that I use my voice and my platform for violence against women, sexual assaults and any abuse against women,” she said.
The Urongo hitmaker said she was approached because of her work and the gig aligned with what she stands for.
“I was excited for the gig, and it made sense [as] there was a brand fit. I should be a woman who is recognised for her work for women in this country.”
She further said after the negotiating, she received a communique that said both the government and client have flagged her for the job because she is a problem and has sworn at them with their underwear.
Punished for my strong voice
“This is defamatory for me because I have never done such in my life. I have always been committed to social responsibility and social issues. It is not fair that I am punished because my voice is too strong.
“I am extremely offended by the suggestion that I am that kind of person and to add insult to the injury, you are taking away my food because of a lie that you have made up and perpetuated. The irony is that this gig is a violence against women gig and you are being violent against me,” she added.
Ntsiki Mazwai shared an email informing her about an outcome of the brand collaboration.
“Unfortunately, we cannot continue with the casting of Ntsiki on this campaign as the higher ups as well as the client have flagged issues with some of the things she has said about government ministers in the past (specifically about their ‘private parts’ on public platforms.”
Ntsiki Mazwai said she does not need an congratulatory messages for doing things she should be doing. Ubuntu is something everyone should be doing, she says.
“However, I do have a problem with people defaming me.”
