Opposition politician Job Sikhala has been creating a stir on social media due to his adoption of a Nelson Mandela-like accent. Sikhala, who recently made headlines after being released from Chikurubi Maximum Prison with a wholly suspended two-year sentence for inciting public violence, caught the attention of netizens with his changed manner of speech.
In an interview conducted by HSTV at his residence following his release, Sikhala shared his experiences during his time in prison and also discussed Sengezo Tshabangu, the self-proclaimed interim secretary general of the CCC (Citizens Coalition for Change). However, what truly captivated viewers was Sikhala’s new accent, reminiscent of the legendary South African leader Nelson Mandela.
Social media platforms were abuzz with discussions, as users expressed surprise and curiosity about Sikhala’s sudden linguistic transformation. Many speculated about the reasons behind his altered accent, with some suggesting that it might be an attempt to emulate the revered Mandela or to garner attention. Others questioned the authenticity of the accent, wondering if it was a deliberate affectation or a genuine reflection of Sikhala’s evolving speech patterns.
While some individuals found Sikhala’s accent amusing or intriguing, others criticized him for what they perceived as an inauthentic and contrived attempt to appear more sophisticated or influential. The topic quickly became a trending subject on various social media platforms, generating a frenzy of memes, jokes, and debates.
As the online discourse surrounding Sikhala’s accent continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether this linguistic shift will have any lasting impact on his political career or public perception.
Watch the part of the interview below:
It is me or Job Sikhala came out of the 4 walls of prison sounding like Nelson Mandela? That voice is strikingly similar pic.twitter.com/5SPo0xcRTK
— LynneM 💕💝💎 (@LynneStactia) January 31, 2024
