Due to unpaid debts and a string of missed performances, multi-award-winning South African artist Makhadzi might be arrested and imprisoned in Botswana. Although the Batswana were kind enough to pardon Makhadzi for earlier wrongdoings, they had run out of patience.
The Ma gear guitarist broke a contract when he abandoned three gigs at the last minute. Makhadzi was scheduled to perform at three events in September: the 29th Maun Carnival, the 30th Kumnandi Ekhaya Music Fest in Thamaga, and the 29th The People’s Festival in Palapye.
This came after she skipped a Gantsi performance in July in favor of a gig in the UK. Currently, sources claim that Makhadzi’s P500k debt has court sheriffs in Botswana lined up to imprison her.
Daniel Dk Kenosi, an entertainment reporter, claims that Makhadzi accrued the debt as a result of the three performances she skipped during Botswana’s independence.
The Limpopo-born performer, in addition to the debt from the three gigs, owes P160k to DC Tours/Hotels for lodging when she held her One-woman show in Botswana.
Following rumours that Makhadzi will be arrested for the debts, Botswana artist Vee Mampeezy spoke out in Makhadzi’s defense. Vee Mampeezy said Gilbert ‘PP wa Pimp’ Seagile, the promoter who asked her to perform in Botswana, was to pay the debts from the One Woman Show and not Makhadzi.
He further contended that as Open Mic is in charge of Makhadzi’s bookings and performances, it ought to be held accountable for her failure to present at the three shows in September.
A business called open mic handles Makhadzi’s bookings. That indicates that, in accordance with Botswana law, summonses are sent to such businesses rather than to the individual defendant. Making Open Mic the one to account for any improper administration of multiple bookings or other bookings, as well as for any necessary refunds.
Makhadzi has been entangled in a number of risky legal battles rather than revelling in her significant victories and her newfound reputation in Botswana. Since a local promoter in Botswana refused to approve the millions from ticket sales, she has not yet received any money from the sold-out concert.
The best attorneys have even been retained by Open Mic Productions, and according to rumors, the case is currently pending in court. Gilbert “PP” wa Pimp of Botswana, who was hired to run the event, is now asking for extra money from the sold-out performance.
