Mawhoo meets Malawian resistance

Mawhoo, real name Thandeka Nontobeko Ngema may have a date at Scallas, but Malawians online appear to have other plans, with nearly nine in every 10 poll respondents saying No to the South African artist’s October 16 performance. The online survey by Watchdog (Voice of the Voiceless Malawi) recorded 2,666 votes against the show, representing 88.6 percent of the 3,009 votes counted, while only 200 people, or 6.6 percent, supported the performance. The backlash comes at a sensitive time, with concerns over recent attacks and alleged mistreatment of Malawians in South Africa fuelling calls for solidarity. The survey analysis says the strongest objections are about timing and the community’s emotional state rather than Mawhoo’s music. It also says some respondents questioned who is behind the event, who stands to benefit financially and whether organisers have properly considered the concerns of Malawians. Meanwhile, Voice of the Voiceless has now formally written Scallas management, asking the venue to cancel or postpone the performance. The group, through a letter signed by Bruno Kufeyani, stressed that its objection was not directed at Mawhoo personally or at South Africans. Instead, it says the timing of the performance risks turning an entertainment night into a flashpoint. “The concern arises from the circumstances and timing surrounding the proposed performance, particularly in light of the recent attacks and mistreatment of Malawians in South Africa and the strong public concern that has followed. “At a time when many Malawians are understandably distressed and demanding accountability and protection for their fellow citizens, proceeding with a high-profile entertainment event involving a South African artist without adequately considering the prevailing circumstances risks creating unnecessary tension and public confrontation,” reads the letter. The group has asked Scallas to reconsider the October 16 date and says it would prefer an amicable solution rather than confrontation. In an interview, ufeyani confirmed that Scallas management has responded to their letter, but said the response fell short of addressing the concerns raised. According to Kufeyani, management simply referred them to the event organizers, saying the organizers were better placed to respond to the issues as Scallas was only the hosting partner. He said the response did not provide any clear position on whether the venue would reconsider hosting the performance or take the concerns into account. The group has since warned that if the event goes ahead, it will consider lawful avenues concerning public safety, licensing, immigration and work-permit compliance and other issues relevant to the show.