According to Sowetan LIVE, in a dramatic turn of events, Malaika’s Tshedi Mholo has voiced her discontent after fellow band member Bongani Nchang replaced her with new vocalist Tsoakae Molipa without her consent. The iconic Afro-pop group, known for hits like “Destiny,” finds itself embroiled in controversy as fans are left in the dark about the lineup change.
Nchang, however, has fired back, pointing to a 2021 public statement from Mholo, which he claims gave him the green light to continue the band’s legacy. The statement, still visible on Mholo’s Instagram, reveals her decision to pursue a solo career, activism, and business. “It is with a heavy heart that I announce my departure from the band… To Bongani, all the best [to] you should you so wish to continue individually and/or get my replacement to preserve the Malaika legacy,” Mholo wrote.
Despite this, Mholo expressed frustration to Sowetan, stating they haven’t spoken in three years. “I wanted to give Bongani the freedom to do what he has been doing in the corners,” Mholo explained. “It felt like he no longer wanted to push the brand forward, so I wanted him to feel free to find a replacement. However, I am not happy with what this rebranding is doing to my career as a solo artist.”
Mholo’s primary concern is fan confusion. “I keep getting tagged by fans in posts on social media telling me that they saw me perform at a gig, but that wasn’t me. Some even tell me how bad I performed, and this is tarnishing my brand,” she lamented. She insists that Nchang should make it clear she is no longer part of the group and demands her vocals be removed from backing tracks.
Nchang, meanwhile, accused Mholo of playing the victim, revealing that industry peers and a prominent record label attempted mediation. “Everyone tried their level best, some even made offers to try to convince her to come back, but still, Tshedi declined,” he said. “She wanted to kill the brand by leaving, and all I did was revive it with someone else without tarnishing anyone’s name, image, reputation, or brand.”
New vocalist Tsoakae Molipa, caught in the middle of this feud, urged for peace. “From the minute I said ‘Yes’ to joining the group, I knew I had big shoes to fill,” Molipa said. “I knew that people loved and adored Tshedi, but I want them to get to know me and how I sing.”
Molipa, who had a budding gospel career before joining Malaika, expressed admiration for Mholo and hopes for reconciliation. “People have been receiving me quite well. Yes, there are a few sceptics, but now they are warming up to me. All I want is for them to sit down and talk. I wish they could resolve and come to a common ground,” she added.
