‘Shaka Ilembe’ actress Khabonina apologises for Zahara post

Actress and dancer Khabonina Qubeka has apologised for her “irresponsible” post on X following the news of musician Bulelwa “Zahara” Mkutukana’s death.

MINISTER CONFIRMS ZAHARA’S PASSING
The Loliwe hitmaker is said to have passed away on Monday, 11 December, at a private hospital in Johannesburg after she was admitted almost three weeks ago.

News of her passing were announced by the SABC on social media, but the public broadcaster later deleted the post. Zizi Kodwa – who is the minister of sports, arts and culture – later confirmed the news and extended his condolences to the Mkutukana family.

“I am very saddened by the passing of Zahara. My deepest condolences to the Mkutukana family and the South African music industry. Government has been with the family for some time now. Zahara and her guitar made an incredible and lasting impact in South African music,” Kodwa wrote.

However, her family have not released a statement yet.

KHABONINA APOLOGISES
This has caused confusion among fans, with others claiming she may still be alive. Amid the confusion, Shaka Ilembe star Khabonina also joined in to pay tribute to the singer. However, minutes later, she claimed Zahara was still alive and wished her a speedy recovery.

“Jan neh the #Hashtags & “full reports” will give us heart attacks! SHES ALIVE. #GetWellSoonZAHARA, ” Khabonina wrote.

The former Muvhango actress’ post quickly garnered reactions from fans, prompting her to delete it and apologise.

“Ja noh… X played me today… walked right into it! Apologies fam! As I walk away,” Khabonina said.

She further said to a fan: “Apologies lala, heard she’s not dead after the rip hashtag. That was irresponsible of me.”