South African influencer and YouTuber Mihlali Ndamase has sparked controversy following remarks made during a recent Instagram Live session, where she allegedly referred to her ex-boyfriend, Leeroy Sidambe, as “After 9,” a term widely perceived as a homophobic slur. The comment has fueled ongoing tensions between the former couple, whose tumultuous relationship has played out publicly.
The live session aired on Sunday night, just months after their highly publicized breakup. Ndamase previously accused Sidambe of physically assaulting her, sharing photos of her bruised face on social media. Sidambe denied the allegations, claiming that Ndamase was under the influence of an unspecified substance at the time.
During the Instagram Live, Ndamase appeared to address Sidambe’s claims, saying, “Mr After 9, which substance am I on?” The pointed comment hinted at questioning Sidambe’s sexual orientation, igniting further speculation and heated debate on social media.
Public Fallout and Social Media Reactions
The contentious nature of their relationship, once filled with public displays of affection, has now devolved into a bitter feud with accusations flying from both sides. Following Ndamase’s remarks, Twitter, now known as X, was flooded with mixed reactions. Some users accused Ndamase of using Sidambe’s alleged sexuality to discredit him, while others speculated about the veracity of her claims.
“She is only seeing all this After 9 nonsense she is talking about now because y’all don’t believe her shenanigans?” tweeted one user, @CFC_AFRIKA_. Another user, @ShwiiinoMtekhala, commented, “She’s bitter, but NOT LYING. I already knew this… his friends, LaSizwe, Somizi, Vusi Nova.”
However, not everyone sided with Ndamase. Some criticized her comments as harmful and accused her of trying to shift the narrative. “Mihlali is lying, and even if she is telling the truth, it goes both ways. You may be taking substances, and he may be whatever you are saying, but you are homophobic or coming across that way,” tweeted @Digitalpen101.
Mihlali accuses Leeroy of being an after 9 [Homosexual]
— Mlimo_Insider (@Mlimo_Insider) September 9, 2024
Accusations of Homophobia and Escalating Feud
Ndamase’s comments have been met with accusations of homophobia, further complicating the already messy fallout between her and Sidambe. Many online users have taken to social media to express their disappointment, noting that such remarks could be damaging and perpetuate harmful stereotypes.
As the feud continues to play out in the public eye, both Ndamase and Sidambe are facing scrutiny from their followers, who are divided over the truth behind their allegations. With their relationship once celebrated on social media, the current animosity has left many fans disillusioned and questioning the motives behind each accusation.
The situation highlights the complexities of navigating personal conflicts in the public eye, particularly when high-profile figures are involved. As both sides continue to voice their grievances, the fallout from Ndamase’s controversial remarks shows no signs of quieting down.