‘Better have my money’: Musa Khawula tells Mbalula in viral rant after Madlanga testimony

Musa Khawula during the 2nd annual Imbizo at Carnival City Big Top Arena on November 11, 2023 in Brakpan, South Africa. The concert is a vibrant celebration of African identity, music, and culture, and brings together music enthusiasts from all walks of life. Picture via Gallo Images/Oupa Bopape) Mbalula, who’s at times referred to asRazzmatazzand‘Minister of Enjoyment,‘ was confronted in a viral X post that has left South Africans equal parts amused and stunned.

Quoting famous singer Rihanna’s lyrics from the song ‘Bi&*$ better have my money ‘,Khawula suggests he is owed compensation following what he claims was a politically motivated arrest and prolonged detention, adding fuel to an already explosive narrative unfolding at the Madlanga Commission, where allegations of political interference in policing are under intense scrutiny. “Hi baby,@MbalulaFikile. I just came to say, b*tch better have my money.

XO, XO, XO. Gossip Girl.” Mbalula, currently the Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC) and former Minister of Transport, has long been a favourite target of online satire. Khawula’s nickname plays on Mbalula’s larger-than-life public persona, but beneath the humour lies a serious accusation: that powerful political figures allegedly influenced law enforcement to silence him.

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As previously reported byThe Citizen,Khawula’s legal troubles stem from his high-profile arrest in KwaZulu-Natal, his extradition to Johannesburg, and more than a year spent behind bars at Sun City Prison. The blogger has consistently maintained that his detention was punishment for exposing alleged corruption involving politically connected businessmen, includingVusimuzi “Cat” Matlala. Those claims gained new traction during testimony by Witness F at the Madlanga Commission.

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