Somizi Mhlongo has ignited controversy by mocking Ayanda Ncwane’s English skills during a podcast interview.

He shared a video on TikTok where he mimicked Ayanda’s words, “They call me by who I’ve done,” and jokingly said that English makes it difficult for Ayanda to express herself.

Ayanda recently trended on social media for her podcast interview, where her use of English sparked debate. While some criticised her language skills, others defended her right to express herself. Somizi’s reaction has added fuel to the fire, with many taking to social media to share their opinions.

The response to Somizi’s video has been mixed, with some people finding it funny and others criticizing him for mocking Ayanda. Some users felt that Somizi was being insensitive and mocking Ayanda’s language skills, while others enjoyed the lighthearted teasing.

Somizi also drew parallels between Ayanda’s situation and that of Winnie Madikizela Mandela, who was often referred to as Mandela’s wife rather than being recognised as an individual in her own right. This comparison has sparked a broader conversation about language, identity, and how people are perceived in South Africa.

The controversy surrounding Somizi’s reaction highlights the complexities of language and identity in South Africa, where multiple languages and cultures intersect. While some see Somizi’s actions as lighthearted teasing, others view it as a form of mockery that perpetuates linguistic and cultural biases.