Somizi takes leave of absence from Metro FM

The SABC has confirmed that Somizi Mhlongo has taken “time off” following allegations that he physically abused his husband, Mohale Motaung.

On Wednesday, the SABC announced on its Twitter feed that Metro FM management had met with Mhlongo, that “he has requested to take some time off from work” and that it “has granted Mr Mhlongo permission to do so.”

The corporation added that it had “noted the comments on social media about Mr Mhlongo and we would like to point out that the public service broadcaster does not condone any acts of abuse and violence.”

Social media users have been outraged that Mhlongo continued to provide relationship advice to listeners on Metro FM’s ‘Ask a Man’ segment this week despite the serious claims made against him in his own relationship.

Over the weekend, Sunday World published Motaung’s bombshell allegations, contained in an apparently leaked audio recording. In it, he said that he was “afraid” of his husband when they tied the knot.

He alleged that Mhlongo broke his ribs and almost knocked out two of his teeth in an altercation last year, and had once driven him off the road after a fight.

Motaung also alleged that just three weeks into their relationship, Mhlongo threatened to stab him with a kitchen knife after he stayed over at a friend’s house.

Mhlongo’s management responded that the matter has been referred to his legal team and “no further comment will be given until such a time deemed necessary by his legal representatives.”

His supporters argue that no action should be taken against him as the claims of domestic violence have yet to be tested or proven. Motaung himself has remained silent on the matter since Sunday’s report was published.

The couple married in a September 2019 traditional wedding, followed by an over-the-top white wedding attended by some of the country’s leading celebrities in January 2020. It was all documented in a hit four-part television special last year.

“The SABC can confirm that @METROFMSA management met with Mr. Somizi Mhlongo and he has requested to take some time off from work. Management has granted Mr. Mhlongo permission to do so.

— SABC (@SABCPortal) August 4, 2021