Gospel sensation Hlengiwe Mhlaba has reportedly parted ways with her management team, leading to speculation that her public support for South Africa’s ruling ANC (African National Congress) party was the cause of the rift.
According to sources, the singer is facing difficulties in securing bookings, except when hired by the governing party in KwaZulu-Natal province.
Three anonymous insiders, who spoke to Daily Sun, claimed that Hlengiwe disregarded her management team’s advice against publicly aligning herself with the ANC. The team, led by Nkululeko Khanyi, founder of the Ungazibulali Awareness Campaign, had been instrumental in promoting her music. However, when they realized Hlengiwe’s unwavering support for the ANC, they tried to warn her about the potential negative impact on her career. Sadly, their counsel fell on deaf ears.
Despite the reservations expressed by her team, Khanyi, who is also a motivational speaker and mental health advocate, did not give up on Hlengiwe. He attempted to convince his colleagues not to abandon her, but their concerns about the potential damage to their own professional reputations prevailed. Consequently, Khanyi and his team decided to sever ties with the singer, leaving her without representation.
A third source revealed that Hlengiwe is currently spending most of her time in KwaZulu-Natal, particularly in light of the upcoming elections. While her former management team wants no involvement with her, she seems unconcerned as she continues to secure gigs through her association with the ANC. However, her future prospects remain uncertain, and it is possible that she may seek to hire a new manager after the elections.
Khanyi confirmed to the People’s Paper that he is no longer working with Hlengiwe, citing “misunderstandings” as the reason for their separation. He expressed admiration for the artist, describing her as a living legend, and wished her success in her career. Thobile Mchunu, who collaborated with Khanyi in promoting Hlengiwe, also confirmed their disassociation without divulging further details.
When approached for comment, Hlengiwe declined to discuss the matter in depth, simply stating that it was a complex issue. She posed a rhetorical question, asking why South African artists couldn’t support political parties when international artists freely express their political views.
