Kaya FM Suspends Sol Phenduka Amid Internal Investigation

South African commercial radio station Kaya FM 959 has confirmed the suspension of popular presenter Sol Phenduka with immediate effect. This decision comes pending the outcome of an internal investigation currently underway at the station. The announcement was officially communicated by Kaya FM’s public relations representative Ian Bredenkamp.

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Background of Suspension

Solomzi Thandubuntu Phenduka, better known as Sol Phenduka, has been placed on suspension while Kaya FM conducts a thorough internal process. The station stressed that the suspension is procedural and that due process will be followed before any further action or details are released.

Kaya FM stated that it will only issue a follow-up statement once the internal investigation is complete. Bredenkamp confirmed that no further information will be disclosed at this stage to protect the integrity of the process.

Role at Kaya FM

Sol Phenduka joined Kaya FM in 2022. At the time of his suspension, he was a co-host on the popular breakfast show Siz the World, alongside Sizwe Dhlomo, sportscaster Mpho Maboi, and newsreader Mfundo Mabalane. Before this stint, Phenduka was active in podcasting and had prior radio experience, including working with 5FM.

Past Controversies

Phenduka has previously faced suspension over controversial remarks. In 2015, 5FM suspended him after he made offensive comments about the Van Breda axe-murder case in Stellenbosch. His remarks drew widespread criticism for being insensitive and triggered a public outcry on social media.

Public and Media Reactions

The suspension has prompted various reactions from listeners and social media users. Some have expressed surprise and concern, while others have called for transparency from Kaya FM about the nature of the internal process. The station, however, has remained firm in respecting confidentiality during the investigation.

Commitment to Due Process

Kaya FM’s statement reiterates the station’s commitment to due process and fair treatment of all its employees amid internal matters. This approach seeks to maintain professionalism while addressing sensitive issues that may impact on-air talent and the station’s reputation.

Kaya 959 suspends presenter Sol Phenduka pending internal investigation

Kaya 959 confirms that presenter Sol Phenduka has been placed on suspension with immediate effect, pending the outcome of an internal process.

We want to assure all staff that the matter is being handled with fairness, sensitivity and due process. 

At this stage, no further details can be shared, but we will keep you informed as soon as there are developments. We appreciate your professionalism and understanding during this period. 

Our focus remains on maintaining stability across the station and continuing to deliver the highest quality of programming for our listeners.

Sol Phenduka’s Manager’s Response

At the time of reporting, Sol Phenduka’s management had not responded to media requests for comments or interviews, leaving many questions unanswered.

Moving Forward

Kaya FM will reportedly share further updates once the internal process is complete. The radio station’s handling of this matter highlights the importance of maintaining integrity and accountability within South African media outlets.

Listeners and industry observers will be closely watching for developments, as the case could have wider implications for professional standards in broadcasting.