Legendary South African singer Thandiswa Mazwai, known as “King Tha,” is using her platform to address the country’s social ills ahead of national elections on May 29th.
In a recent interview with EWN, Mazwai criticized the ruling class, arguing that “power corrupts” and politicians have failed to deliver on the promise of freedom. She believes citizens must become more engaged to safeguard their democracy.
Her newly released album, “Sankofa” (meaning “reclamation” in Ghana’s Akan language), reflects these concerns. The album tackles issues like childhood trauma, unemployment, and substance abuse plaguing many South Africans.
Mazwai blames the government for fostering a “lawless” environment where corruption is rampant. She argues that the influx of migrants is a symptom of economic hardship, not xenophobia.
“We don’t fear European migrants,” she says, “Afrophobia is about competition for scarce resources.”
Mazwai believes lax border controls and government corruption are the real culprits behind illegal immigration. She argues that a lawless society breeds lawlessness among its citizens.
While some criticize younger musicians for not being as politically charged as their predecessors, Mazwai disagrees. She believes all art forms, including the popular Amapiano genre, carry a political message, whether explicit or implicit.
Mazwai’s message is one of both critique and hope. She urges South Africans to reclaim their freedom and hold their leaders accountable for a brighter future.
