Khuzani Mpungose Donates to Fan Beaten over Song of the Year
Maskandi artist Khuzani Mpungose has extended a helping hand to Siyabonga Gumede, a staunch fan who was assaulted for celebrating Khuzani’s 2023 Song of the Year title on Ukhozi FM.
Gumede who resides in Dukuduku outside Mtubatuba, KwaZulu Natal, received a generous cash donation of R30,000 from Khuzani to help in rebuilding his home.
Gumede, a supporter of Khuzani, was reportedly attacked by his neighbor, a fervent fan of maskandi artist Mthandeni “Igcokama Elisha” Manqele. The incident unfolded when Gumede, elated by Khuzani’s song “Umjolo Lowo” being crowned the 2023 Song of the Year on Ukhozi FM on December 31, went to celebrate with his neighbour. This angered the neighbour, whose preferred artist secured second place with the song “Paris,” featuring Lwah Ndlunkulu.
Recalling the incident, Gumede shared,
“When I went to my neighbour to share my excitement, he became angry and I wasn’t even aware that he wanted Mthandeni to win the crossover song. I went there to celebrate with him not knowing that I was inviting bad thigs into my life. He attacked me like a mad man and nearly killed me, I had to run for my life.”
Khuzani, accompanied by award-winning gospel artist Jumbo, visited Gumede at his home and donated R20,000, while Jumbo added R10,000. Gumede, grateful for the assistance, emphasized that the funds would significantly contribute to rebuilding his life. He explained,
“I wasn’t expecting this from Khuzani and Jumbo. I lost my job after the incident. I recently got hired and they had to let me go because my arm and leg got injured when my neighbour tried to hack me with a bush knife. I don’t have words to thank them. This money will help me renew my driver’s license and build my shack that was burnt down by my neighbour.”
In a plea to maskandi music enthusiasts, Khuzani urged an end to violence. He also called on authorities to investigate Gumede’s case. Although Gumede filed an assault case with KwaMsane SAPS, no arrests have been made as the neighbour fled the scene.
