Category: News

Moja Love responds to ‘Isencane Lengane’ public outrage

Moja Love has broken its silence following public outcry and renewed calls to cancel its controversial reality show Isencane Lengane.

ISENCANE LENGANE’S LATEST EPISODE SPARKS OUTRAGE ONLINE
The popular reality series, now in its seventh season, has long stirred debate, but its most recent episode, which aired on Sunday, has sparked a wave of anger and backlash over the alleged glorification of abuse.

Isencane Lengane has followed Siyacela and Thando Dlamuka‘s troubled relationship since they married as teens.

The outrage stems from a scene where Siyacela, hurled insults at his wife, Thando, over his decision to take a second wife. He also clashed with elders in the episode, further enraging viewers.

Viewers have taken to social media to express their frustration, with many accusing the show of perpetuating gender-based violence (GBV) and emotional abuse for ratings.

@womenforchange5 wrote: “Abuse is not entertainment. Trauma is not a storyline. Moja Love must take immediate action to discontinue the TV show “Isencane Lengane” due to its dangerous portrayal of abuse and toxic relationships.”

@ManchiTumi wrote: “What is this?? #Mojalove cancel this show. A lady is crying for help on national TV. We are sitting as SA just watching Mojalove cashing in on Abuse on national TV, let’s Axe this show.”

A TRACK RECORD OF ABUSIVE BEHAVIOUR
Over the years, Siyacela has admitted to both physical violence and infidelity, including a 2023 episode where he confessed to hitting Thando and breaking her phone. These incidents have left many questioning why the show is still on air.

In response to The South African, over the public outrage, Moja Love said:

“We have received various complaints lodged with the BCCSA, and these are being attended to by our legal department.

“It is important to mention that the show is a reality show that showcases real-life stories and embraces various cultural aspects of the lives of the main cast. The channel does not condone any acts of violence and/or intimidation,” said the channel.

MOJA LOVE FINED OVER ABUSE EPISODE AS VIEWERS DEMAND ACCOUNTABILITY
This is not the first time the channel has faced criticism. In 2023, Moja Love was fined R50,000 by the Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa (BCCSA). This follows after it aired an episode that depicted domestic violence. However, the channel was later cleared on appeal.

Despite repeated statements that it does not support abuse, many viewers continue to urge the channel to take greater responsibility for its content and message.

WHAT IS YOUR TAKE ON THE SHOW’S CONTENT?