Picture: Instagram
Maskandi star Mthandeni Manqele has stirred trouble by urging fans to boycott the upcoming Badedele Maskandi Festival scheduled to be hosted by Afrosoul singer Intaba YaseDubai at Newtown Precinct Park in Gauteng on the 13 July.
According to Daily Sun, The festival faced criticism from Mthandeni after he announced he would not be attending. He justified his decision by revealing that a close friend was not booked to perform. Taking to Facebook, Mthandeni urged his fans to join him in boycotting the event, stating that he owes no one an explanation for his stance.
He initially criticised the event as “crap,” citing the absence of a close friend from the lineup. Later, despite being featured on the event poster alongside over 50 other artists, Manqele remained firm on his decision to boycott, refusing to provide further comments when approached by the publication.
Intaba YaseDubai expressed suspicion that Mthandeni’s actions may be an attempt to sabotage the event. He stated that the festival would proceed as planned, with tickets selling fast.
“The event will proceed with or without him. Perhaps he’s not acting alone in trying to undermine this event. Regardless of his opinions, it will go ahead, and tickets are selling fast.”
When asked about any past conflicts with Mthandeni, Intaba YaseDubai expressed surprise at the boycott, stating there had been no prior issues between them. He also did not confirm whether Manqele had been paid a booking fee despite being added to the event poster later on.
Also see: ‘Stop insulting me!’ Mthandeni responds to Dr Sipho Sithole’s claims about artists