Photo of Nomonde Simelane

The South African dilemma: Celebrities consistently failing to speak out on important issues

Time and time again, whether locally or internationally based, South African celebrities have proven to be somewhat detached from reality as some of them have consistently failed to speak out on important domestic issues. In the wake of the Trump saga, our notables are nowhere to be seen, as per usual.

For some time now, fans and supporters of various celebrities have called their favourites out for their lack of engagement with important and current affairs. Whether it is politics, current affairs, or sports, our celebrities appear to have no say or opinion. It is possible that the hesitation to speak out may stem from a fear of the public’s reaction, as we live in the dawn of cancel culture. However, the track records reveal that this has been a consistent issue for some years now.

South African citizens have flocked to the internet to either dispute or corroborate Donald Trump’s claim of racial inequality and the passing of inhumane policies at the hands of the government, particularly President Cyril Ramaphosa. Racial tensions continue to rise as the races cannot seem to reach a consensus regarding what is best for the republic moving forward.

Amidst all the chaos and drama, some internet users have expressed how the silence from some of our notable names has become increasingly deafening. These users wonder why our international celebrities such as Tyla, Trevor Noah, DJ Black Coffee and Uncle Waffles among others, have failed to speak up against the misinformation being spread about their country.

Trevor Noah’s career has been built on his commentary on mzansi’s political landscape, and his silence on this issue has left a bitter taste in the mouths of some users.

This has brought about an important conversation which begs the question of whether celebrities and influential figures have a moral obligation to be ambassadors of their countries and speak out against anyone who comes for their nation, or whether they should be left alone to do as they please.

Also see: Trouble in MKP paradise: Duduzile Zuma crashes out at Floyd Shivambu

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