TikToker Max Makhanya apologises after court appearance for inciting violence - IOL
TikToker Nkululeko Maxwell Makhanya has apologised to KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi in a case involving alleged crimen injuria and incitement to violence.
TikToker Nkululeko Maxwell Makhanya, who stands accused of crimen injuria and inciting violence, has publicly apologised to KwaZulu-Natal police commissioner General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi following his release on R7,000 bail at the Durban Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
According to The Mercury, Makhanya, aged 38, was arrested on Sunday at Princess Magogo Stadium in KwaMashu while attending the MK Party’s “Sithatha Omaspala” election rally, held in anticipation of local government elections. His arrest stemmed from allegations of insulting Mkhwanazi, which prompted the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Task Team to open a case against him.
During his court appearance, senior prosecutor Nkululeko Msiya indicated that the State would not oppose Makhanya's bail application due to the charges falling under Schedule 1 offences. However, he requested the court to set bail at R10,000, highlighting Makhanya’s sizeable monthly rental commitment of R13,000 for accommodation in Midrand.
In response, Makhanya’s lawyer, Advocate Mzonjani Zulu, contended that his client was unemployed and actively seeking work. When Magistrate Ashwin Singh inquired about Makhanya's living arrangements, he learned that while Makhanya’s home was in Mbumbulu, he had been residing in Gauteng for temporary employment. Makhanya revealed that he was staying in a flat registered under the name BE Blose and often paid just R1,000 in rent, sometimes forgoing payment altogether.
Zulu informed the court that Makhanya had two children, with his girlfriend expected to give birth imminently. However, Magistrate Singh noted the severity of the charges, which have become increasingly prevalent in Durban, and scolded Makhanya for appearing to laugh during proceedings.
Ultimately, bail was granted at R7,000, though strict conditions were imposed. Makhanya is prohibited from inciting violence or advocating abuse against police officers, their families, or government employees.
After the hearing, Makhanya took the opportunity to express his remorse towards Mkhwanazi and the citizens of South Africa. He explained that the video which led to his legal troubles surfaced after disputes with others on TikTok, leading to the entire incident spiralling out of control. “I made attempts for the video to not go viral. I even fought with the people that posted the video. I would like to apologise to Mkhwanazi and the whole of South Africa,” he stated.
Makhanya's next court appearance is scheduled for January 20.
