- Former Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) member and current Power FM presenter, Mbuyiseni Ndlozi, has sparked widespread reaction on social media.
- Ndlozi posted a viral video mocking African National Congress (ANC) national chairperson Gwede Mantashe’s ‘antics’ at the party’s 114th-anniversary celebrations.
- The video, shared on X (formerly Twitter) by journalist Sihle Mavuso on January 15, 2026, became the subject of Ndlozi’s criticism.
- Social media platforms have been flooded with mixed responses, including jokes, criticism, and defenses of Mantashe.
The incident highlights the ongoing public scrutiny of political figures in South Africa and the significant role social media plays in shaping public discourse. Ndlozi, known for his outspoken nature, leveraged his platform to comment on Mantashe’s behavior, leading to an immediate and extensive online debate. The viral nature of the video underscores how quickly content can spread and influence public opinion, particularly when involving prominent political personalities.
Reactions to the video ranged from humorous mockery to serious allegations against the ANC, with some users making jokes at Mantashe’s expense and pointing out the expressions of other ANC officials in the video. Conversely, some users defended Mantashe, suggesting his actions might have been for health reasons, illustrating the polarized nature of political commentary online.
This event follows previous instances where Mantashe dominated headlines for his comments on youth unemployment, indicating a recurring pattern of his actions drawing public attention and sometimes controversy. Ndlozi’s move from the EFF to broadcasting has not diminished his capacity to stir public debate, showcasing his continued influence in South African media and political spheres.
Timeline
- January 15, 2026: Journalist Sihle Mavuso shares a clip of Gwede Mantashe’s antics on X.
- January 16, 2026: Mbuyiseni Ndlozi posts content mocking Mantashe’s actions, leading to the video going viral.
- January 16, 2026 (ongoing): South African social media users engage in extensive discussions, jokes, and debates about the incident.
Key Players
- Mbuyiseni Ndlozi: Power FM presenter and former EFF member who mocked Mantashe.
- Gwede Mantashe: ANC National Chairperson, whose actions at the anniversary celebrations went viral.
- Sihle Mavuso: Journalist who initially shared the video on X.
- ANC: African National Congress, whose 114th-anniversary celebrations were the setting for the viral incident.
