'I realise the comments I made may have caused harm'

South African poet and musician Ntsiki Mazwai has publicly apologised to Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton Mackenzie, and musician Unathi Nkayi after making defamatory remarks about them on social media.

Her apology comes after she accused Mackenzie of intentionally excluding her from the delegation attending the 2025 Havana International Book Fair in Cuba. She alleged that he has favouritism and gives tenders to his friends, and thinks because he is a Minister he can do as he pleases.

Mazwai also criticised Unathi Nkayi, claiming she was “not a writer”, She further alleged she was initially invited to the event by Cuban organisers in December 2023 but was later replaced by Nkayi.

How Gayton Mackenzie and Unathi Nkayi reacted to the allegations

The video Mazwai shared on X stirred significant controversy, prompting Mackenzie to threaten legal actions against her over the allegations she made about him. Meanwhile, Unathi took to her Instagram page to share a story explaining the origins of Mazwai’s apparent dislike for her, which may have led to such statements.

Public apology issued

Mazwai again took to X, but this time to issue an public apology, explaining her reasons behind her actions and acknowledging the impact of her statements on Mackenzie and Nkayi.

She admitted that her intention was to express frustration but now understands that her remarks can be misinterpreted and cause harm.

*Public apology issued by Ntsiki Mazwai to Gayton Mackenzie and Unathi Nkayi. Picture: X@NtsikiMazwai*

Unathi Nkayi not fazed by the apology

While Mazwai has apologised and expressed regret for the unnecesary controversy, Unathi does not appear to be moved by it or willing to accept her apology.

Instead, Unathi took to her Instagram page and wrote a comment that seemed more like a warning to Mazwai.

This is what she wrote on her post:

“Call me a PROSTITUTE AGAIN…….F#@k around and FIND OUT @missntsikimazwai,” Unathi wrote.

ALSO CHECK OUT: ‘You feel as a Minister you can do as you please’ Ntsiki Mazwai accuses Mackenzie of favouritism