Soul Phenduka, a popular radio presenter at Kaya 959, was suspended following a public backlash over comments he made on-air. The suspension, initially announced by the station as “pending the outcome of an internal process,” was a direct result of controversy surrounding his remarks about the radio industry.
The Real Reason for the Suspension
The suspension was sparked by a social media uproar after a clip of Phenduka’s comments went viral. In the audio clip, he was heard making critical remarks about his own show, “959 Breakfast”, and the state of the radio industry. These comments were seen by many as disrespectful to his co-host, Sizwe Dhlomo, and to the station itself.
- Disparaging Remarks: Phenduka stated that he was “not happy” with how the breakfast show was run and that it wasn’t the kind of show he wanted to be a part of.
- Controversial History: This isn’t the first time Phenduka has been in the spotlight for on-air comments. He has a history of making controversial statements, which has previously put him at odds with his co-host, Sizwe Dhlomo. The two have had a publicly strained relationship, with past on-air disagreements and social media spats.
The suspension was a response to mounting pressure from the public and internal stakeholders who felt his comments were unprofessional and undermined the station’s brand. While Kaya 959’s official statement referred to an “internal process,” the consensus from multiple sources is that the backlash from his on-air comments was the primary cause. The station needed to address the public outcry and demonstrate that it takes professionalism and brand reputation seriously.
What Happens Next?
The suspension is considered a serious disciplinary action. Phenduka’s future at the station remains uncertain. While the station’s statement says updates will be provided once a final decision is reached, the nature of his comments and his history with the station suggest that the outcome could be severe. This incident highlights the growing power of social media in holding public figures, including broadcasters, accountable for their words and actions.
