Radio and podcast personality Sol Phenduka has confirmed that his recent suspension from Kaya FM is directly related to the ongoing legal dispute involving media personality Minnie Dlamini. Dlamini launched a R2.5 million lawsuit earlier this month against Phenduka and his podcast co-host MacGyver “MacG” Mukwevho, citing hate speech and harassment.
RELEVANT ARTICLE: Sol Phenduka Links His Suspension to R2.5M Minnie Dlamini Lawsuit
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Background of the Lawsuit
Minnie Dlamini filed the case in the Equality Court, seeking R1 million in damages for herself and an additional R1.5 million in donations to a women’s organisation. The suit accuses Phenduka and Mukwevho of making misogynistic, degrading remarks about Dlamini on their popular Podcast and Chill with MacG. These comments allegedly included insults about Dlamini’s relationships and personal life, including a humiliating joke suggesting that she had poor genital hygiene.
Dlamini argues that these statements constitute hate speech, unfair discrimination, and harassment, and that they have harmed her dignity. Despite a half-hearted apology issued by Mukwevho, Dlamini has rejected it, insisting that both men face legal consequences.
ALSO READ: Kaya FM Suspends Sol Phenduka Amid Internal Investigation
Suspension by Kaya FM
On 20 August 2025, Kaya FM announced the immediate suspension of Sol Phenduka pending an internal investigation. The station did not initially disclose the reasons behind the suspension. Soon after, Phenduka broke his silence, stating on the Podcast and Chill show that his suspension was indeed linked to the court case.
Phenduka clarified that his suspension was not due to any unprofessional behaviour or misconduct at work but was a response by Kaya FM management, likely concerned about reputational damage ahead of the court proceedings. He mentioned that the station had recently undergone management changes and entered a partnership with United Stations, intensifying scrutiny over its public image.
Reactions and Implications
Phenduka described the suspension as a “seven-day pause,” pending outcome of the allegations. MacG, his co-host, labelled the lawsuit as an “old story” but acknowledged that the case had escalated tensions.
Sources close to Kaya FM revealed that the station was worried the legal matter could tarnish its reputation, especially since the lawsuit involves allegations of hate speech tied directly to comments made on a show hosted by Phenduka and Mukwevho. The station demanded explanations from Phenduka and reportedly weighed whether to terminate his contract based on his response.
Lebo M’s Solidarity with Minnie Dlamini
The lawsuit and suspension have drawn attention from South African media figures, notably Lebo M, the respected music producer and cultural icon. Lebo M publicly expressed solidarity with Minnie Dlamini, praising her courage in taking a stand against hate speech and harassment. He emphasised the importance of protecting women’s dignity in the media and called for accountability from those who spread misogynistic and harmful narratives.
Lebo M’s support highlights growing awareness and intolerance within the entertainment industry regarding gender-based abuse and discrimination. His backing lends weight to Dlamini’s fight for justice and encourages other public figures to uphold respectful and responsible communication.
The Broader Context
The incident has sparked broader conversations in the South African media landscape about the responsibilities of public figures and the boundaries of free speech, particularly regarding respectful treatment of women in the industry. The case highlights the growing intolerance for misogyny and harassment in entertainment and social media platforms.
Minnie Dlamini’s lawsuit demands not only financial compensation but also a formal, court-approved apology to her and women in general, underscoring the serious nature of the charges lodged.
