As calls for South African celebrities to speak out on the issue of illegal immigration intensify, DJ Speedsta has chosen a different approach. He explained why he decided not to join the chorus of voices from celebrities in this discussion.
DJ Speedsta's Stance
The DJ and hip-hop artist stated that he refuses to let social media dictate when and what he speaks about. His comments came after several weeks of online pressure, during which many public figures were criticized for their silence during protests and marches against illegal immigration, including the nationwide strike on June 30th.
On the show 'Up To Speed with DJ Speedsta,' which premiered on YouTube on July 6th, he reflected on the growing expectation that celebrities must react to every topic under discussion. He emphasized: 'Firstly, celebrities are people too, and everyone has the right to have their own opinion and preferences.'
Principles of Expressing Opinion
Speedsta believes that instead of commenting just to please social media, people should only speak when they possess a deep understanding of the issue at hand. He added: 'Personally, I don't talk much about politics because I know little. So I am like that. I am not going out to say viva, viva is this, viva. I will not talk about what I do not know.'
His words resonated with many who questioned the obligation of celebrities to intervene in political and social debates solely because of their large audience. In recent weeks, social media users have increasingly demanded that musicians, actors, and influencers publicly share their opinions on illegal immigration. Some users even created lists of celebrities they believed should be canceled for their silence.
Celebrity Culture and Criticism
However, for Speedsta, silence does not mean avoiding difficult conversations; it reflects honesty about his knowledge and a refusal to 'perform' for the internet. His message also raises a broader theme of celebrity culture. While public figures often use their platforms to raise awareness about important issues, many argue that fame should not automatically make someone an authority on all matters.
Several well-known South Africans have come under scrutiny for their silence during recent immigration debates. Among those criticized online for lacking public commentary were global music producer Black Coffee and Amapiano star Uncle Waffles. Former Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi and actress Nomzamo Mbatha have also faced similar criticism in the past for refusing to comment on broader social and political issues.
Even DJ Tira found himself involved in this discussion. Some social media users called for a boycott of his event 'Durban Hotbox,' accusing him of remaining silent on the protests against illegal immigration. The discussion gained additional significance when his wife, Gugu Khathi, shared her own views online. She stated: 'We are not lazy. South African youth are not lazy. People in South Africa are not lazy. You just don't have a choice.'
Gugu Khathi argued that many South Africans are willing to work but face limited opportunities, and she urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to pay attention to the issues related to undocumented foreigners.