'Close your eyes if it bothers you': Ukhozi FM presenter stands firm on mini-skirt controversy
'CLOSE your eyes if it blinds you': This is the response of Ukhozi FM's presenter Bingelela Mpanza to critics of her mini-skirt outfit.
Image: META
Ukhozi FM presenter Bingelela Mpanza has brushed off criticism after her choice of outfit at the Mthandeni Summer Experience music festival in eMdletsheni, KwaHlabisa, northern KwaZulu-Natal, sparked heated debate on social media over the weekend.
Mpanza, who served as master of ceremonies at the event, drew mixed reactions for wearing a short mini skirt that some attendees and online commentators deemed inappropriate.
Critics argued that the outfit was at odds with the conservative image of Ukhozi FM and the traditionally reserved views of many maskandi music followers. Some went as far as questioning her personal life and suitability for the role.
UKHOZI FM presenter Bingelela Mpanza has boldly responsed to criticism over her choice of outfit at the Mthandeni Summer Experience in northern KwaZulu-Natal over the weekend.
Image: META
However, others came to her defence, saying the backlash amounted to outdated and misogynistic policing of women’s bodies and personal expression.
Responding on her Facebook page, Mpanza dismissed the criticism and made it clear she was unfazed.
“Who is complaining? I am just asking; I am not fighting,” she said. “I am not a child. Don’t worry and don’t stress. If what I am wearing is blinding you or stressing you, close your eyes.”
She added that she was unbothered by those attempting to dictate how she should dress, saying she was comfortable and confident in her style. In a tongue-in-cheek response to critics, she challenged those unhappy with her outfit to buy her a longer skirt.
Mpanza, 35, co-presents Ukhozi FM’s Saturday maskandi show Sigiya Ngengoma alongside Vusizwe Langa. While the genre is known for its strong traditional following, Mpanza has carved out a reputation for her bold personality and modern flair.
Her career extends beyond radio. In 2024, she was nominated for Best Radio Personality/DJ at the Abroad Achievement Awards in Bridgeport, United States. She has also performed internationally, including an appearance in Vienna in August last year.
Born in Nongoma, Mpanza is a former presenter at Nongoma FM and is also a budding maskandi artist. She has released an EP and previously debuted her Afro-soul/jazz album Isibingelelo in 2015.
UKHOZI FM's Bingelela Mpanza is defiant following criticism of her choice of outfit at a music show where she was master of ceremonies.
Image: META