African National Congress (ANC) Secretary General Fikile Mbalula angered X many users on Wednesday evening with his tribute tweet to the late gospel star Solly Moholo.
Moholo, aged 65, passed away at an undisclosed hospital on 2 October after suffering a stroke and experiencing multiple organ failure. The gospel heavyweight rose to prominence in the early 2000s and was a force to be reckoned with in the gospel music industry, boasting a career spanning over two decades.
FIKILE MBALULA PAYS TRIBUTE TO SOLLY MOHOLO
On behalf of the African National Congress (ANC), Mbalula joined South Africans in paying tribute to Moholo by sharing a heartfelt tribute to the late iconic singer.
“The ANC is deeply saddened by the passing of legendary gospel singer, Solly Moholo, a true icon in the South African music industry. His powerful voice, passion for spreading the word of God, and dedication to uplifting the spirits of many through his music will forever be remembered. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends, and fans during this difficult time. May his soul rest in peace, and may his legacy live on in the music and joy he brought to the world,” he wrote.
X USERS DRAG MBALULA AFTER HONOURING MOHOLO
X users reacted to Mbalula’s tribute with criticism. One user, who goes by the handle @ApostleDeza, accused Mbalula and the ANC of ignoring Moholo’s family after they asked for donations from the public to cover his medical expenses. Many are now calling on the ANC to cover his funeral costs, especially since Moholo publicly endorsed the party.
“Be ashamed Fikile!Ntate Solly’s Family Few Weeks Ago was requested for Help when he was in hospital in Botswana, all of you as the @MYANC said Nothing! Today you’re posting his pictures with Ramaphosa pretending like you cared! Where were you when he needed you the most?” he wrote.
Other X users vented their frustrations, criticising Mbalula and the ANC for allegedly failing the legend.
@vusi_mygy wrote “It’s disheartening to see a statement from you about Solly Moholo’s passing after failing to support him during his time of need. True commitment to our artists means not only offering condolences but also stepping up to help when it matters most. We hope this serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting those who uplift our communities”
@Nomsa_Khawula wrote “A man who publicly endorsed the ANC for years and the ANC failed to donate even 2Bob during his time of need. Today you are here”
@Gilly95427603 wrote “How do you get saddened when the family went out public for donations. You ignored requests for donations and now you are saddened by his death? That’s so small of you my SG”
Embeds:
SOLLY MOHOLO’S FAMILY URGENT PLEA TO THE PUBLIC
The Thaba Ya Sione hitmaker fell in August while he was in Botswana for a string of performances for his pre-album launch tour. He had to be repatriated to a South African hospital where he was said to be receiving medical care.
In September, his management released a statement on behalf of his family revealing that Moholo had suffered a stroke and multiple organ failures, which necessitated brain surgery. They requested donations of around R700,000 to help pay for his medical expenses.
“The medical costs associated with his treatment have accumulated to an approximate amount of R700 000. Given the substantial nature of these expenses, the Molokoane family is urgently seeking financial support from the public at large as well as his associates and/or supporters to assist in covering his medical costs,” they said.
HOW WILL YOU REMEMBER SOLLY MOHOLO?
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