By Susy Gill |celeb news | August 2025
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Breaking News: Suspension Announced
South African radio personality Sol Phenduka has been suspended from Kaya 959 with immediate effect, the station confirmed on Wednesday, 20 August 2025. The decision affects his presence on air, meaning listeners will not hear Phenduka on the station’s breakfast show on 21 August 2025.
Kaya 959 released a formal statement indicating that the suspension is part of an internal review process currently underway. The station assured listeners and staff that due process will be followed and that updates will be provided once a final decision is made.
"Kaya 959 confirms that presenter Sol Phenduka has been placed on suspension with immediate effect. This step has been taken pending the outcome of an internal process currently underway. The station is committed to following due process, and no further details will be shared at this stage," the statement read.
Who is Sol Phenduka?
Solomzi Phenduka, popularly known as Sol Phenduka, is a well-known radio presenter and DJ in South Africa. He currently co-hosts the Kaya 959 breakfast show alongside Sizwe Dhlomo, Nosipho Radebe, and Mpho Maboi. Over the years, Phenduka has built a strong following for his energetic style, humorous takes on current events, and engaging interviews with local celebrities.
Previously, he co-hosted the show with Dineo Ranaka, who was also dismissed from Kaya 959 under separate circumstances. Despite the popularity of the program, Kaya 959 has been tight-lipped about the reasons behind Phenduka’s suspension.
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Suspension Without Details
At the time of reporting, neither Kaya 959 nor Phenduka’s management has disclosed specific reasons for the suspension. The station emphasized that the process is internal, and staff, listeners, and stakeholders are asked to respect the procedure until conclusions are reached.
Phenduka’s management declined to comment, leaving the public to speculate on the possible triggers for the suspension.
Context: Kaya 959 and Past Controversies
Kaya 959 is a leading urban adult contemporary radio station in Johannesburg, known for its popular breakfast show lineup. The station has previously faced public controversies involving prominent hosts, such as the high-profile dismissal of Dineo Ranaka.
Industry analysts note that suspensions and internal reviews are common in high-profile radio stations, often tied to compliance with corporate conduct policies, on-air behavior, or internal disputes.
For background on media industry standards in South Africa, see News24 – South African radio and broadcasting ethics.
Public Reaction and Social Media
The news of Phenduka’s suspension quickly spread across social media platforms. Fans and listeners expressed concern, with many taking to X (formerly Twitter) to ask questions about the reasons behind the decision. Some called for transparency, emphasizing that the host is a key figure in the station’s programming.
At the same time, discussions online reflect broader conversations about media accountability and the responsibilities of high-profile broadcasters. Social media debates have highlighted the need for clear communication from stations during personnel changes to avoid speculation and misinformation.
Explore books on media ethics and public relations for a deeper understanding of industry practices.
Potential Scenarios Behind the Suspension
While the exact reasons remain undisclosed, industry insiders suggest several possible triggers:
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Internal Policy Breach: Suspension could relate to a breach of station policy or corporate code of conduct.
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On-Air Controversy: Controversial statements made during broadcasts may prompt temporary suspension while investigations are conducted.
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Management Dispute: Internal conflicts between hosts and management can result in short-term suspensions to maintain station decorum.
Given the sensitive nature of media employment law in South Africa, stations often avoid publicizing specific details until internal investigations are complete.
Mail & Guardian – Media labor laws in South Africa.
Implications for Kaya 959 and the Breakfast Show
The immediate effect of the suspension is a temporary reshuffling of the breakfast show lineup, with co-hosts likely to cover Phenduka’s segments. While this ensures continuity, it may affect listener engagement and ratings, given Phenduka’s popularity.
Kaya 959 has emphasized that the suspension is procedural and not indicative of permanent dismissal, though the final outcome remains pending.
Industry Perspective
Experts in broadcasting note that suspensions, while disruptive, can sometimes strengthen corporate governance by ensuring accountability. At the same time, a lack of transparency can fuel speculation, potentially impacting the station’s public image.
“High-profile personalities are often under scrutiny, and stations must balance due process with public communication. A temporary suspension allows for investigation without prejudgment,” says media consultant Thabo Molefe.
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What Happens Next?
Kaya 959 has committed to providing updates once the internal process concludes. Until then:
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Phenduka will not be on air.
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No additional details will be released publicly.
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Management urges staff and listeners to respect due process.
Industry watchers are closely monitoring developments, noting that similar cases have historically resolved in either reinstatement, permanent suspension, or termination depending on investigation outcomes.
TimesLIVE – High-profile media suspensions in South Africa.
Conclusion
The suspension of Sol Phenduka from Kaya 959 is a developing story, highlighting the delicate balance between internal corporate governance and public accountability in the media industry. While fans await clarity, the station continues to stress due process and careful handling of the matter.
This case also underscores the high stakes for public figures in broadcasting and the importance of adhering to station policies, while maintaining audience trust and engagement.
Call to Action: Stay updated on South African media news by following SNL24 or News24.
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