Podcaster and poet, Nontsikelelo ‘Ntsiki’ Mazwai has issued a public apology to the minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie after her recent spat.
This follows after the Department of Arts and Culture chose media personality, Unathi Nkayi to represent South Africa at the 33rd Havanna International Book Fair in Cuba, leaving writers and poets like her feeling robbed of an opportunity.
Recently, Ntsiki shared an apology she had penned to Gayton where she revealed that she realised that her comments were not only inappropriate but may have caused unnecessary harm and confusion.
She also added that in future she will use comments that are measured and respectful.
“While the intention was to express frustration, I understand that such statements can be misinterpreted or damaging, and for that, I apologise. I also recognise the need to be more thoughtful and responsible when discussing sensitive matters, especially when it involves public figures and important industry processes. Moving forward, I will ensure that my comments are more measured and respectful. Once again, I apologise for any offence caused and will work to be more mindful in the future,” she said.
APOLOGY FOR RECENT POST
WEDNESDAY 19 FEBRUARYI would like to sincerely apologise for my recent post. Upon further consideration, I realise that the comments made were not only inappropriate but may have caused unnecessary harm and confusion. While the intention was to express… pic.twitter.com/zRHMGZ5vDT
— NtsikiMazwaiMedia (@ntsikimazwai) February 19, 2025
The former IdolsSA judge took to her Instagram page to share Ntsiki’s apology and gave her a stern warning in her caption.
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The Umoya host initially shared her frustrations about ‘favouritism’ and ‘corruption’ in South Africa, this is after she said that she once went to Cuba, as the Cubans had asked her to come because they wanted to translate her poetry. Recently, she said that the Cubans contacted her and let her know that they wanted her to be a guest at the book fair they recently hosted, but the SA government said they chose another candidate.
This led to her public outburst, which was later followed by her heartfelt apology.
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Also see: Internet supports Ntsiki Mazwai addressing Cuba Book Fair delegation
