Unathi Nkayi Performs For Cuban President Amid Ntsiki Mazwai’s Corruption Allegations

South African singer and radio presenter Unathi Nkayi recently had the prestigious honor of performing for Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel at the Havana Book Fair. The star was among 15 South African authors who spent two weeks in Cuba, but the event has since been clouded by controversy.

Outspoken poet Ntsiki Mazwai has slammed Minister of Sport, Arts, and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, for allegedly selecting Unathi unfairly, claiming she is not a best-selling author and was given preferential treatment.

Ntsiki Mazwai’s Explosive Allegations

In a fiery rant, Ntsiki Mazwai questioned how Unathi made the list, suggesting government corruption and favouritism played a role.

“They chose someone who isn’t even a writer or poet. Cuba specifically asked for us. Unathi is not a writer,” Ntsiki stated.

She further claimed that Unathi was flown in business class while others traveled in economy and was booked into a five-star hotel, while other writers stayed in three-star accommodations.

“Why was one booked in a five-star hotel while other writers were booked in three-star hotels?” Ntsiki demanded.

Unathi Fires Back: “She’s Been Angry Since 2002”

Responding to Ntsiki’s accusations, Unathi did not hold back. She revealed that their tension dates back to 2002, when Ntsiki allegedly accused her of theft.

“In 2002, two days after I hosted the SAMAs, she found my number and called me. I had never met her, had never spoken to her, and did not know of her until then. She accused me of stealing her designs whilst I hosted the awards.”

Unathi dismissed the claims and sarcastically clapped back: “My being has annoyed her for 23 years, as in uyancitheka arhawzelelwe ngumstsi okwengathi uneworms (Her anger tears her a* up). Up to a point that she now says I am not the best-selling author that I am.”*

She ended her response with a subtle jab: “I love you, Ntsiki. I’m going to reprint and do it again.”

Gayton McKenzie Threatens Legal Action

Minister Gayton McKenzie did not take the accusations lightly and has threatened legal action against Ntsiki.

“Ntsiki, you have made very serious allegations against me, very slanderous. I will take you to court. You will have a perfect opportunity to show the court of law your evidence.”

He also challenged Ntsiki to prove her claims: “You have gone very far this time. Share your invite from the Cubans to the book fair.”

Despite the legal threat, Ntsiki remained defiant, accusing the minister of bullying her into silence.

Mzansi Reacts to the Drama

The public is divided over the heated exchange: @Mpho_Tweets: “Ntsiki might be controversial, but sometimes she speaks the truth. Favoritism in SA arts is real!”

@ZuluBoss: “Unathi is UNBOTHERED! That clapback was spicy.”

@Lebo_Media: “Gayton McKenzie threatening legal action? This just got serious.”

@SiphoSA: “One thing about Ntsiki—she will speak her mind, no matter the consequences.”

With legal action on the table, the feud between Ntsiki Mazwai, Unathi Nkayi, and Minister Gayton McKenzie might not end on social media. Will Ntsiki stand her ground, or will the courts decide who’s in the wrong? What do you think? Was Unathi unfairly chosen, or is Ntsiki stirring the pot?

---

For SA Celebrity News Follow SurgeZirc SA on Facebook,  X and Instagram