Award-winning actress Lerato Mvelase has addressed the criticism she faced online after publicly supporting actor Bonko Khoza.
Bonko, best known for his role in The Wife, recently came under scrutiny after his former Red Ink co-star, Nirvana Nokwe, accused him of sexually violating her.
Also see: Old Nirvana Nokwe message sparks fresh debate in Bonko Khoza saga
Public support sparks debate
Following Bonko Khoza’s decision to break his silence and release a public statement, several female colleagues, including Lerato Mvelase, openly showed their support for him. Their reactions quickly divided social media users, with many criticising the actress for standing by the actor amid the serious allegations.
Lerato Mvelase shares cryptic messages
On Tuesday, 19 May 2026, Mvelase posted a message on social media that read, “God, heal your people.”
View this post on Instagram
A day later, she shared another Instagram post encouraging people to stand by the truth.
“Stand for something, but make sure it is the truth,” she wrote.
View this post on Instagram
Her comments fuelled further online discussion, with some users defending her stance while others expressed disappointment over her support for Khoza.
Also see: Bonko Khoza’s denial of sexual violation allegations divides South Africans
Actress Ayanda Borotho, who stars alongside Khoza in Ithonga, also publicly supported him. Her response similarly drew criticism from social media users who felt celebrities should remain neutral while the allegations are being discussed publicly.
The online community reacts
Lerato’s posts have sparked reactions from internet users. Some supported her stance, while others criticised her for standing with Bonko.
“We stand with Bonko Khoza,” commented one internet user.
“Stand for something, because a lie may gather a crowd, but truth survives time,” added another.
Sceptical of the support, an internet user added: “Pray tables don’t turn, my dear! Believing a potential perpetrator over a victim who is a woman like you without solid evidence says a lot about your character!”
“Until it happens to your family member or child,” warned another.
Also see: Bomb Productions addresses allegations made by Nirvana Nokwe-Mseleku against Bonko Khoza
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