Somizi responds to bombshell abuse allegations

Allegations of domestic abuse have shattered the reality TV veneer of Somizi Mhlongo and Mohale Motaung’s marriage.

For months, rumours have circulated on social media about the troubled status of one of the country’s most high profile same-sex couple.

Now, the Sunday World has reported that Motaung has alleged that Mhlongo physically abused him.

In a recorded interview with the producers of Mhlongo’s reality series Living the Dream with Somizi, Motaung claims that he was “afraid” of his husband when they tied the knot.

He went on to allege that Mhlongo broke his ribs and almost knocked out two of his teeth in an altercation last year, and had once driven him off the road after a fight.

Motaung also alleged that just three weeks into their relationship, the Idols SA judge threatened to stab him with a kitchen knife because he stayed over at a friend’s house.

While Motaung said that he loves Mhlongo, he is no longer in love with him and wants a divorce. He is prepared to leave the marriage with just his clothes and car, as long as Mhlongo repairs it.

Neither Motaung nor Mhlongo’s social media have addressed the shocking reports which have set social media ablaze. Mhlongo’s management, however, has now issued a statement acknowledging the allegations, without confirming or denying them.

“Mr Somizi Mhlongo has become aware of allegations allegedly made against him by his estranged husband, Mr Mohale Motaung, published in the Sunday World newspaper on 1 August 2021,” the statement says.

“Given the severity of the allegations, Mr Mhlongo has referred the matter to his legal team who are best equipped to handle the matter moving forward. No further comment will be given until such a time deemed necessary by his legal representatives.”

The couple married in a September 2019 traditional wedding, followed by an over-the-top white wedding attended by some of the country’s leading celebrities in January 2020. It was all documented in a four-part hit television special last year.

In February, Mhlongo and Motaung appeared on the cover of True Love magazine denying reports that their marriage was on the rocks although admitting that they have their rough patches.

“Mohale and I have never split up, but we have challenges just like any other couple out there. We’re fortunate that we have other homes to retreat to when we choose not to be in the same space, so we either go to our home in the Vaal or Zimbali,” Mhlongo said at the time.