Thando and Siyacela Dlamuka's reality show 'Isencane Lengane' on Moja Love has once again come under fire from viewers due to the abusive behaviour seen on the Moja Love show. Picture: Moja Love
Image: Supplied/Moja Love
Women's advocacy group Women For Change has added their voice to the calls for the discontinuation of channel Moja Love reality show “Isencane Lengane”.
The organisation highlighted the devastating impact of gender-based violence and domestic abuse in their communities and the channel’s decision to continue exploiting this reality for entertainment value.
“This is not just irresponsible, it is dangerous. By broadcasting such abuse without adequate intervention and accountability, Moja Love is normalising and trivialising gender-based violence, sending the harmful message that abuse is acceptable if it brings in viewers.”
Over the years, the popular reality show has drawn mixed reactions from viewers. It follows the lives of Thando and Siyacela Dlamuka who got married as teenagers in 2019.
The reality show has sparked controversy due to concerns about the couple's relationship dynamics, particularly Siyacela's perceived abusive behavior and past admissions of violence.
In the most recent episode of the show, an explosive argument erupts over Siyacela’s decision to take on a second wife. The couple’s discussion does not go well with Siyacela hurling insults at Thando and the family elders.
This is not the first time, the show has gotten viewers triggered over the abuse shown on the show in 2023 Moja Love released a statement following viewer concerns saying that the channel “does not condone or support gender-based violence”.
The channel said it prided itself “on producing content that reflects the reality in our society, including social ills, and as such could not sweep the GBV incident between Thando and Siyacela under the carpet”.
That same year, Moja Love was fined R50,000 by the Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa (BCCSA) for broadcasting an episode of "Isencane Lengane" that depicted domestic violence but was cleared on appeal.
Women for Change has called on - Moja Love to take immediate action to discontinue the TV show "Isencane Lengane" due to its dangerous portrayal of abuse and toxic relationships.
- If Thando wants to leave her abusive marriage, Moja Love and relevant authorities must offer immediate emotional and legal support.
- The Broadcasting Complaints Commission of South Africa (BCCSA) must hold Moja Love accountable for violating ethical standards.
- Viewers and advertisers to stand against the exploitation of abuse and demand higher standards from the media they support.
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