Linda Ximba
Popular maskandi musician Mthandeni Manqele, otherwise known as Igcokama Elisha, has been accused of assaulting Charles Khuzwayo, an entertainment journalist.
Mthandeni was apparently so enraged by a report written by Khuzwayo that he and some friends went to Khuzwayo’s home in Swayimane in the KZN Midlands last week and allegedly attacked him.
The journalist had reported that the maskandi artist had ruined a wedding ceremony in Ulundi.
Mthandeni is said to have gatecrashed the event, grabbed a microphone from the programmes director and addressed the audience, much to the annoyance of the hosts.
Mthandeni reportedly had to flee the venue as the wedding guests bayed for his blood.
A source said: “The newspaper report angered Mthandeni so much because he
felt it painted him in a bad picture. Apparently he has not been happy with how Charles often writes about him.”
Khuzwayo confirmed he was assaulted but referred Scrolla.Africa to his advocate.
Lawyer Thalente Mhlongo confirmed they have served Mthandeni with papers demanding that he must make a public apology.
“We also demand R200,000 for defamation of character since he attacked my client in full view of family members and neighbours. We have given the artist 48 hours to attend to the matter,” said Mhlongo.
Approached for comment, Mthandeni denied he attacked the journalist. “I don’t know what you are asking me about. Maybe the person who attacked that journalist looks like me.”
KZN cops spokesperson Captain Nqobile Gwala confirmed a case of assault has been opened against Mthandeni.
“No arrest has been made yet,” said Gwala.
