Kaya 959 has officially parted ways with South African radio personality Solomzi “Sol” Phenduka after a review into controversial remarks he made on the Podcast and Chill with MacG platform about actress and businesswoman Minnie Dlamini.
The station confirmed on 1 September 2025 that his contract as a content provider on its flagship breakfast show had been terminated with immediate effect, citing a breach of its core values of trust, integrity, accountability, respect, and inclusivity. This decision followed his suspension on 20 August while an internal investigation was underway.
In its statement, the station explained that it could not condone the comments made on the podcast, which it described as misogynistic. It added that Phenduka had previously provided written assurances in June 2023 that he would not engage in similar behavior again, but that his actions had now broken that agreement. As a high-profile member of the breakfast show team alongside Sizwe Dhlomo, Kaya 959 said his conduct compromised its reputation and credibility.
The controversy is closely linked to an ongoing Equality Court case brought by Minnie Dlamini against the Podcast and Chill team, including both MacGyver “MacG” Mukwevho and Sol Phenduka.
Dlamini is seeking R2.5 million in damages for what she describes as hate speech, gender-based harassment, and unfair discrimination following crude remarks about her private life that circulated widely earlier this year. The case has sparked national debate about accountability in media and entertainment, particularly where online platforms with large audiences are concerned.
Shortly after the termination was announced, Phenduka confirmed the news himself in a brief post on X, formerly Twitter, writing simply, “They fired me.” His acknowledgment followed earlier comments in which he linked his suspension directly to the Equality Court action brought by Dlamini.
Supporters and critics alike have since weighed in, with some defending the decision as a stand against harmful speech while others, such as music executive Nota Baloyi, condemned the move as an unfair attack on freedom of expression.
Phenduka’s dismissal marks a turning point in his career, which began more than a decade ago when he gained public recognition as a contestant on Big Brother Mzansi before building a reputation as a DJ, podcaster, and radio broadcaster. Having joined Kaya 959 in 2022, he quickly became a familiar voice on morning radio, balancing that role with his appearances on Podcast and Chill.
His exit highlights the growing tension between personal expression on digital platforms and the professional standards expected by traditional broadcasters. The unfolding legal case and its outcome are likely to shape not only Phenduka’s future in the industry but also broader conversations in South Africa about accountability, misogyny, and the responsibilities of public figures.
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