Read more
Moja Love confirmed Xolani Khumalo's return to 'Sizok’thola' after charges against him were temporarily dropped.
Moja Love has confirmed the return of Sik’thola host Xolani Khumalo. Picture: X
Less than 24 hours after murder charges against Sizok’thola host Xolani Khumalo were temporarily dropped pending an investigation, TV channel Moja Love announced his return to the show.
Speaking to The Citizen, Moja Love’s spokesperson Nonzwakazi Cekete said the channel “did not want to be seen to be throwing Mr Khumalo under the bus,” by not bringing him back to the show.
“You will recall that the channel at that time had issued a statement stating that it will respect the legal process and not comment on the merits of matter,” Cekete said.
ALSO READ: Moja Love cuts ties with Xolani Khumalo amid murder case
Temporary withdrawal of charges
Khumalo made a brief appearance on Monday at the Palm Ridge Magistrate’s Court, facing charges of murder, robbery and malicious property damage.
However, the charges were temporarily dropped pending an investigation.
On Tuesday morning, the channel released a statement confirming his return to Sizok’thola – a show that combats the scourge of drug use in the community by raiding the homes of those who sell the drugs.
Khumalo said that time away from the show allowed him to reflect.
“I am grateful to be back at Moja Love, a place that is home to me. I have had an opportunity to reflect and I look forward to reconnecting with the amazing viewers and showcase my talent to Mzansi,” he said.
Despite being away from the show while investigations in his case were ongoing, the channel said discussions with the host were happening in the background.
“Discussions with Mr Khumalo were continuing behind the scenes and like everything else, reflections and discussions were the order of the day,” shared Cekete.
The spokesperson neither denied nor confirmed if the show experienced a dip in viewership during Khumalo’s time away.
ALSO READ: ‘That channel is cruel’ − Reactions as Moja Love replaces Xolani Khumalo on return of ‘Sizok’thola’
Khumalo’s returns to the helm
Speaking to the media after Monday’s court proceedings, Khumalo promised to tighten the pressure on those who sell drugs in the community.
“I’m going to do it 10 times now because things are getting out of hand, back on Moja Love, back on the same show. We will continue working,” he said.
Moja Love’s Head of Channel, Livhuwani Dagada, said Khumalo is known for his authentic, engaging and on-air presence and strong connection with viewers.
“His return will continue to strengthen the channel’s commitment in raising awareness on the plight of drugs and its impact in communities, in collaboration with law enforcement.”
NOW READ: ‘A validation of the hard work I’ve put in’: Khanyisile Ngwenya on her first Comics’ Choice win
Download our app
