KwaZulu-Natal Health MEC Nomagugu Simelane is facing accusations of pressuring Vuma FM to fire radio presenter and activist Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, allegedly due to her involvement in the March in March movement, which advocates against illegal immigration.
Sources claim Simelane threatened to withdraw government advertising from the station unless Ngobese-Zuma was removed. The popular presenter was abruptly dismissed on July 15, 2025, reportedly without a disciplinary hearing or clear explanation.
A senior Vuma FM insider revealed the station felt compelled to comply due to its reliance on government ad revenue. Ngobese-Zuma had recently organized a protest at Durban’s Addington Hospital, sparking debate over undocumented foreign nationals accessing public healthcare.
Simelane’s spokesperson, Ntokozo Maphisa, denied the allegations, calling them unfounded and emphasizing the department’s focus on healthcare priorities. Vuma FM has not yet issued an official statement but confirmed one is in preparation.
The incident has raised concerns about political interference in media independence, particularly regarding controversial social issues. Ngobese-Zuma’s dismissal continues to draw mixed reactions, with supporters decrying it as censorship while others back the station’s decision.