Ngizwe Mchunu opens up about his rise and fall in candid interview. Picture: Supplied
Renowned radio personality Ngizwe Mchunu takes centre stage on the hit show Unfollowed, offering viewers an unfiltered glimpse into his tumultuous life, career, and the myriad controversies that have lined his path.
From his meteoric rise as one of Ukhozi FM’s most celebrated hosts to the troughs of personal and professional despair, Mchunu's story is a compelling narrative built on resilience and reflection.
Mchunu starts the episode by sharing his journey, beginning with his childhood and leading up to his peak at Ukhozi FM, where he hosted a show that captured the hearts of many across southern Africa.
Although his success seemed vast, he does not shy away from discussing the devastating impact of his firing in 2018, which was marred by allegations of leaking confidential information.
It was an unprecedented fall from grace that left him grappling with the fallout, estimated at around R5 million. “It affected me a lot. I was highly depressed,” he candidly admits.
Mchunu also revisits the contentious events of the 2021 unrest, where he found himself accused of inciting violence.
He shares how these allegations not only tarnished his public image but also affected his personal relationships and career milestones.
“I’ve done my part during the unrest, and I have learnt my lesson,” he reflects, providing insight into the toll this chapter took on his life as he dealt with being dubbed a ‘terrorist’ by international media.
The conversation takes an intimate turn as Mchunu discusses his complicated relationship with former president Jacob Zuma and his family.
He describes Zuma as ‘a very grounded person’ and speaks candidly about the strains with Zuma’s daughter, Duduzile, sharing a story that highlights the complexities of their bond: “I even got insults from Duduzile.” The episode serves to humanise these infamous figures and articulate the intricacies of connection in the face of public scrutiny.
Mchunu does not shy away from diving into his ongoing feud with the Economic Freedom Fighters’ Julius Malema. He addresses the origins of their conflict, especially surrounding accusations of tribalism during the 2024 elections.
“I am not [a tribalist], but I am proud of who I am and proud of the Zulu nation,” he asserts, showing viewers his commitment to identity amid the prevailing tensions.
In a revealing moment, Mchunu refers to himself as the president of ‘AmaBhinca’ in KwaZulu-Natal, suggesting a self-proclaimed authority he claims to wield during the unrest.
When pushed to clarify the extent of this power, he quips, “I was the president of the forest,” hinting at an intricate blend of celebrity and influence that characterises his identity in the region.
The Star
anita.nkonki@inl.co.za
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