TK Nciza seeks R5m in defamation lawsuit over Zahara’s death

The legal battle between former ANC Gauteng secretary Thembinkosi ‘TK’ Nciza and arts activist Bandile Magibili has intensified. Nciza is seeking a default judgment in a defamation claim against Magibili, demanding R5 million. The dispute arose from comments made by Magibili during an interview on ‘Podcast and Chill with MacG,’ where he allegedly accused Nciza of being responsible for the death of singer Zahara in 2023. Zahara, whose real name was Bulelwa Mkutukana, passed away due to liver disease, and had been mentored by Nciza during her rise to fame. However, their relationship soured after Zahara left Nciza’s TS Records amid allegations of unpaid royalties. Nciza’s legal documents state that Magibili’s accusations were harmful, defamatory, and damaging to his reputation, presenting him as a murderer. Magibili failed to respond to the summons issued against him in November 2025, prompting Nciza to seek a default judgment in court. Zahara’s death had been linked to liver disease, which was exacerbated by alcoholism. This case highlights ongoing tensions in the local music industry and the harm caused by defamatory public statements.