Somizi Mhlongo Faces Backlash Over Misleading Tribute to Mbongeni Ngema
Versatile media personality Somizi Mhlongo is being accused of being a clout chaser following his decision to share a screenshot of his supposed last WhatsApp conversation with the late Mbongeni Ngema.
Ngema tragically lost his life in a fatal head-on collision on Wednesday evening while returning from a funeral in Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape.
Somizi’s Poignant Tribute
In the wake of the passing of the multi-talented musician, composer, choreographer, and playwright, Somizi penned a heartfelt and extensive tribute, portraying Ngema as a father figure who played a pivotal role in his discovery and mentorship.
Somizi also took to social media to post a screenshot of what he claims is his final WhatsApp conversation with Mbongeni Ngema. Accompanying the image, he wrote:
“This text was sent on the very same Tuesday and something felt like u were saying goodbye but in my head and heart, I was like I’m glad ur smelling your flowers. It has been my main aim to always make sure that u know that u are the reason I AM THEE SOMIZI. And I made sure that I tell u and show u each time.”
Also Read: “Good Riddance”: Mzansi Celebrates Mbongeni Ngema’s Death as Rape and Abuse Allegations Resurface
Somizi’s Mbongeni Ngema Tribute: Colour Discrepancy Raises Eyebrows
Despite the touching contents of the alleged conversation, sharp-eyed social media users quickly noticed a peculiar detail about the message. They observed that the message, supposedly from Mbongeni Ngema, appeared in green, indicating that Somizi might have sent the message to himself, creating a false impression.
One social media user shared Somizi’s screenshot and raised questions about why the IdolsSA judge would send himself WhatsApp texts, pretending that they were from Mbongeni Ngema. The post reads:
“Why is Somizi sending himself WhatsApp texts and pretending they are from Mbongeni Ngema “
Also Read: Breaking News: Producer Mbongeni Ngema Has Died
Backlash and Accusations: Social Media Reacts
Criticism ensued on social media, with many users accusing Somizi of misleading them and suggesting that he was resorting to such tactics for attention and relevance. Here are some of the reactions:
@VendaVendor:
😂 what if Mbongeni’s spirit took Somizi’s phone and texted?
@IG_Jay_Khath:
The way he likes attention you’d swear he doesn’t know a single camera in his life😭🤣🤣
@NgakoBoshomane_:
Probably wants to talk at the memorial? Retla reng mara
@GorgeousWandz:
Main character syndrome. It’s giving narcissist Nje.
@Tumie_Boroboko:
I wonder if celebrity friends call each other out. Like uMamkhize saying to Somizi while chilling together at Shawn’mansion drinking expensive wine “mara chomi,nawe uyabheda,what the hell was that? What were you thinking??” Yoh umsangano phela lento ka Somizi
