‘Umkhokha’ actor under fire for distasteful remarks

Umkhokha actor Kininonke “Kini” Shandu has received heavy backlash for his utterances about women who conceive children out of wedlock.

Shandu, who is a former Gagasi FM and Daily Thetha presenter, referred to women who have kids out of wedlock umdlambila (naughty women).

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‘UMKHOKHA’ ACTOR FACING DISCIPLINARY ACTION

According to Sunday World, the Sebenza Women Awards’ disciplinary committee announced on Monday that Shandu will no longer be the face of the awards. The actor is the co-founder of the awards.

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“Mr Kininonke Shandu will be treated as a first-time offender for bringing the name of the Sebenza Women Awards into disrepute,” reads the statement from award organisers.

“This means that we are not going to cancel or fire him from the executive, however, he now does have a disciplinary file against him and will be cancelled only this year from participating in the Sebenza Women Awards 2024.”

The statement further revealed that Shandu will buy school stationery and sanitary pads for school kids. He is also expected to issue a 30-seconds apology video to women, children, men, and stakeholders who have been displeased by his conduct.

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APOLOGY

Shandu has since apologised on social media, saying his comments were a joke.

“Critically, it is important to clarify that the statement in question does not align with my genuine beliefs, the utmost respect that I have for women, and my commitment towards the promotion of their rights and empowerment,” Shandu said.

“I understand how my words may paint a contrasting picture, and I am truly regretful for any contradiction and disappointment this may have caused.”

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