South African music star Shandesh, born Rakgoale Nelly Machethe, has found herself embroiled in a social media controversy following comments about Botswana that sparked widespread backlash.
BOTSWANA FAMOUS CLUB CANCELS SHANDESH PERFORMANCE
Déjà Vu Night Club has cancelled a performance by South African artist Shandesh due to a strong backlash from Batswana.
The cancellation was prompted by Shandesh’s comments, which many deemed disrespectful to Botswana and its people.
The club stated that the decision was based on feedback from media, social media, and the local community.
Management highlighted their dedication to integrity, respect, and meeting the expectations of their patrons.
SHANDESH BROUGHT US SHAME – NOW BANNED IN BOTSWANA?
Shandesh once called Botswana home, but now she’s being cancelled hard by Batswana and the entertainment elites. The very same artist who once cashed cheques in Gaborone is now being shown the door – all because of her own words.
It all started when Shandesh threw serious shade at Botswana, calling it a “poor country” where “people still travel with Nike blankets to hustle for money” and “even the cars are outdated – you won’t see a single BMW.” Those words hit hard and rubbed a lot of people the wrong way.
Now, music industry bosses are calling for serious consequences. Gilbert Seagile, a respected figure in the scene, slammed her comments as “unacceptable and unprofessional.” He’s urging the Botswana Entertainment Promoters Association (BEPA) to suspend her for two full years and to warn promoters against booking her.
“If we don’t act, we’re saying this kind of disrespect is okay. It’s not. BEPA must lead by example,” said Seagile.
Even though Shandesh has since issued an apology, the damage is done. Many Batswana say it’s too late. “You can’t visit a country, diss it publicly, then expect an invite again. It doesn’t work like that,” one fan posted online.
From queen of the stage to persona non grata — Shandesh might have just burnt her own bridge.
