Unathi apologises for Twitter messages

This comes after she seemingly tried to defend Stellenbosch University’s language policy that isolates black students. The conversation, which started on Msengana’s radio show on Metro FM, was sparked by Luister, a documentary on the continuing racism that black students experience at the university.

Her comments enraged many people and students of Stellenbosch University. She then exchanged sour words with a Twitter user, who then leaked the private messages Msengana sent her.

In the messages, Msengana calls the twitter user a “PSYCHO B***H”, further saying: “Do you think insulting me, my marriage and my sexuality is going to change your situation? You’re a f***ing idio if so.”

Msengana has since apologised for the messages. Read statement below:

Two days ago, on radio, I expressed an opinion on the language policy at Stellenbosch University. Thereafter my opinion became the subject of a Twitter debate. Unfortunately some of the subsequent commentary criticised me in ways that I felt badly violated my personal life and my personal beliefs.

To be cast as an advocate for rape, gender inequality and homophobia when I am passionate about ending these social ills, was extremely shocking. As a result, in what I have come to realise was a bad attempt to defend myself, I reacted by engaging directly with a Twitter follower. However, as upset as I was at that time, I should not have used offensive language. I therefore wish to publicly apologise for my choice in language.

Going forward, whilst l refuse to be bullied on Twitter about my opinions, I will exercise better judgment when using this platform. I thank those who have supported me.

Msengana has since been taken off air temporarily “as the public broadcaster was still dealing with what happened on Twitter,” explained the public broadcaster’s spokesperson, Kaizer Kganyago.