Criselda apologises for ‘she man’ comments and defending Manana

Metro FM talk show host and HIV activist Criselda Dudumashe has apologised for defending Mduduzi Manana and using offensive words during her address at the HEAIDS Genger Based Violence dialogue at the University of Venda on Friday.

Dudumashe said she was “greatly pained” that defending Manana and her choice of words at the dialogue upset South Africans.

“I unreservedly apologise for the hurt my words have caused. To the many activists and victims of abuse, I realise that I have let you down. That was never my intent, and for that I am deeply sorry.

“My words came across as though I have no regard for victims and survivors of abuse. Nothing could be further from the truth. As a victim myself and a humanitarian, I strongly condemn all forms of sexual and gender-based violence, and believe that no one should be violated in any way. Those found guilty of abuse or any violation of human rights, should face the full might of the law

“I remain committed to serving humanity, and will continue to make a difference where I can.

“I apologise to the LGBTIQ community, everyone who attended the GBV session at the University of Venda and all South Africans for my statements. I am so sorry,” she said.

Though at first she denied making such statements at the University of Venda, saying the witness statements were “super malicious and not true”, Dudumashe said she read the criticism and feedback on social media and understood where the anger was coming from.

“I fully understand the anger and backlash from South Africans who expected better from me, particularly given the work I do, my own history and the position I hold as a media personality.

“To my employer the SABC, my colleagues and loyal listeners of my show on Metro FM I apologise for letting you down,” she said.

Dudumashe came under fire on social media after sharing a lengthy post painting Manana, who beat up a woman, as a good friend of hers. She trended for defending him, when she should have been condemning his actions. He has since resigned from his position as deputy higher education and training minister.

On Friday last week, the activist apparently asked all the men in the room to stand up, and allegedly further said even if they were not sure about their sexuality, as long as they had a penis between their legs, they were men and should stand up.

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