South African comedian Mongezi Mahlangu, better known as Tol A$$ Mo, found himself in hot water after making controversial remarks about traditional healer Gogo Skhotheni and the tragic passing of her son, Monde Junior.
During an episode of Podcast and Chill, the comedian discussed traditional healing practices, implying that muti (a form of traditional medicine) may have played a role in the child’s passing in September 2024 while he was in the ICU.
His comments did not sit well with Skhotheni, her husband Monde Shange, or many South Africans who called him out for being insensitive and reckless.
Tol A$$ Mo’s Public Apology
Facing intense backlash, Tol A$$ Mo took to Instagram to issue a public apology.
In a now-deleted post, he expressed deep regret for his words, acknowledging how hurtful they may have been.
His apology, according to IOL, came alongside a video of him preaching in church, showing his remorse.
He went so far as to say that he would not celebrate his 39th birthday until Skhotheni forgave him. His statement read:
“I want to take a moment to sincerely apologize for my words.
In the heat of the moment, I spoke without truly understanding the depth of pain that comes with losing a child.
I realize now how insensitive my words may have been, and I deeply regret any hurt I may have caused.
Loss is something no one should have to experience, and I can’t begin to imagine the pain of those who have.
I take full accountability for my words, and I am truly sorry.
Moving forward, I will be more mindful and considerate in my speech, ensuring that I lead with empathy and understanding.”
Gogo Skhotheni and Her Husband Respond
Following Tol A$$ Mo’s initial comments, Gogo Skhotheni expressed her pain and frustration on TikTok, calling his remarks reckless and deeply hurtful.
Her husband, Monde Shange, also weighed in, posting a strong response on Instagram.
He condemned the comedian for speaking insensitively about their son’s death, stating:
“There are lines that should never be crossed, and one of them is speaking on the loss of someone’s child with disrespect and ignorance. @tolassmothegamer, the comment you made about my wife and my son’s passing is beyond hurtful – it’s reckless and inhumane.
My wife, as a mother, has been carrying unimaginable pain every single day since Monde Junior left us.
To suggest that her work as a traditional healer had anything to do with his passing is not only false but deeply offensive.”
Shange continued by demanding respect for their grief and emphasizing the emotional toll of losing a child.
“No parent deserves to bury their own child, and no grieving mother should have to endure such baseless accusations while trying to heal.
I don’t know what made you think it was okay to say that, but I need you to understand the weight of your words.
This isn’t something to speculate about or use for attention–it’s our real life, our real pain.
Respect our loss. Respect my wife @gogo_skhotheni.
And most importantly, respect Monde Junior’s memory.”
Moving Forward
Tol A$$ Mo’s apology has sparked mixed reactions, with some appreciating his willingness to take responsibility, while others believe the damage has already been done.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of choosing words carefully, especially when discussing sensitive topics like grief and loss.
This article was published on TDPel Media. Thanks for reading!
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