In what many are calling a desperate attempt to repair his image, Somizi Mhlongo took to his Instagram story on March 4, 2025, with a post that quickly backfired. The post featured a stunning gown with the caption, “Dress: my creation. Model: my creation.”
While some fans saw it as a sweet gesture, others accused Somizi of using the post as a media stunt to distract from ongoing allegations of neglecting his daughter, Bahumi Mhlongo.
“How can you design a gown for your daughter but not support her financially?” one user commented. Another added, “This feels like a PR move to repair his image.”
The Backlash That Led to the Post made by Somizi Mhlongo
The controversy began after Palesa Madisakwane, Somizi’s ex and mother of his 30-year-old daughter Bahumi, went on a tell-all podcast. Palesa didn’t hold back, revealing shocking details about Somizi’s alleged neglect over the past three decades.
Despite his fame and flamboyant lifestyle, Palesa claims Bahumi is still struggling to make ends meet. “Bahumi doesn’t have a place of her own. She stays with me, her mother, and drives my car,” Palesa shared. She also debunked rumors that Bahumi is living a lavish lifestyle, stating, “She doesn’t even have a car. It’s good that she’s still hustling like any other young person.”
Palesa’s Explosive Revelations
Palesa didn’t stop at Bahumi’s financial struggles. She also revealed how Somizi Mhlongo initially distanced himself after Bahumi’s birth and even demanded a DNA test to confirm paternity. “He wanted a DNA test, and it came back positive. But even then, he refused to support her,” Palesa said.
The actress also recounted the emotional toll of taking Somizi to maintenance court. “It was so embarrassing, but I had no choice. He couldn’t even look at us during the proceedings. When the results came out, I just cried because I felt humiliated and disgraced,” she shared.
Bahumi’s Financial Struggles
Despite the court ruling, Palesa claims Somizi has never stepped up to support Bahumi. “Even today, Somizi is still not supporting Bahumi. I’m the one responsible for her well-being. She is 30 years old, but she’s not financially stable. She’s still living under my roof, and I’m the one taking care of her,” Palesa revealed.
Palesa also addressed the criticism that Bahumi, at 30, should be more independent. “A wealthy parent like Somizi should help their child where needed, without spoiling them,” she said.
Fan Reactions: Divided Opinions
Somizi’s Instagram post has sparked a heated debate online. While some fans slammed him for allegedly using the gown as a PR stunt, others defended him, suggesting that there may be more to the story.
“Maybe he’s trying to make amends in his own way,” one fan wrote. However, another countered, “Designing a gown doesn’t make up for years of neglect.”
Palesa’s Final Plea
While Palesa insists she’s not out to tarnish Somizi’s reputation, she made it clear that she hopes he’ll finally step up. “I wish he could support his daughter. A wealthy parent like Somizi should help their child where needed, without spoiling them,” she said.
What’s Next for Somizi and Bahumi?
As the drama continues to unfold, the spotlight remains firmly on Somizi Mhlongo and his role as a father. Will he address the allegations, or will he stay silent? Only time will tell.
What do you think about Somizi’s Instagram post and the allegations of neglect? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Check out the dress and Somizi’s Instagram post here.
Explore more of our stories here.
