Ngizwe Mchunu. Picture: Supplied.
Last week on Showmax Original talk show Unfollowed, Mel Viljoen shared her story, offering viewers an intimate look into her business, personal life, and marriage.
This week, it’s Ngizwe Mchunu’s turn to take the spotlight. Known for his work as a radio host and television presenter, Ngizwe opens up like never before, leaving nothing off the table. From his time at Ukhozi FM to his legal battles, and the accusations of his inciting violence during the 2021 unrest, this episode dives into the issues that have made headlines and captivated public attention.
Here are five reasons to watch this week’s episode:
- Discussing his rise and fall
Ngizwe doesn’t hold back in this episode, offering an honest and unfiltered look into both his personal and professional life, revealing the triumphs and struggles that have shaped him. He takes viewers on a compelling journey, starting with his childhood and leading up to the pinnacle of his career at Ukhozi FM, where he hosted one of the most popular radio shows in southern Africa. But it’s not just about his rise to fame – Ngizwe also opens up about how he lost it all, offering a candid reflection on the challenges and setbacks that followed his success.
In 2018, Ngizwe was fired from Ukhozi FM after 11 years at the station, following allegations of leaking private station information. He reveals that the experience sent him into a dark place, both mentally and financially, adding that the fallout from his dismissal resulted in losses estimated at around R5 million.
“It affected me a lot,” he admits. “I was highly depressed.”
- Addressing the 2021 unrest controversy
Ngizwe tells his side of the story regarding the accusations of his inciting violence during the 2021 unrest, offering viewers a deeper and more personal understanding of the events from his perspective. He sheds light on how the controversy surrounding the unrest impacted not just his public image, but also his career trajectory, personal life, and future prospects.
“I’ve done my part during the unrest and I have learned my lesson,” he shares, reflecting on the turmoil and whether or not he regrets his involvement. His words come after being labeled a “terrorist” by international news media – an accusation that threatened his reputation and professional standing.
- Unpacking his relationship with the Zumas
Ngizwe speaks candidly about his relationship with former president Jacob Zuma and his children, offering an honest account of their bond and how it has evolved over time. Ngizwe describes Zuma as “a very grounded person,” who has the ability to “relate and connect with anyone.”
When it comes to his relationship with Zuma’s children, he reveals a more complex dynamic. Speaking about tensions with Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile, he says, “I even got insults from Duduzile.”
- His remarks about Julius Malema
He also opens up about his longstanding feud with Julius Malema, revealing the origins of their conflict and the key moments that fueled the tension between them. During the elections in 2024, Ngizwe was accused of being a tribalist after he suggested that Julius should campaign in his hometown of Limpopo instead of KZN, a claim he firmly denies.
“I am not [a tribalist], but I am proud of who I am and proud of the Zulu nation. If other tribes are not proud of who they are, it’s none of my business,” he says.
- His views on being the president of AmaBhinca
Ngizwe also opened up about the so-called power he holds in KwaZulu-Natal, where he refers to himself as the “president of AmaBhinca.” He also claims that he took over as the president during the 2021 unrest.
When pressed further about his influence and the extent of his “power”, he responds by saying, “I was the president of the forest,” hinting at the larger-than-life persona he has cultivated in the region.
Also see: Spitch Nzawumbi to host ‘Unfollowed’ season 2 | Bona Magazine
