South African singer Kelly Khumalo has vowed to take legal action against eNCA after news anchor Shahan Ramkissoon mistakenly announced her death during a live broadcast.
The error occurred on Tuesday evening when Ramkissoon, while reporting on the passing of celebrated singer Winnie Khumalo, accidentally mentioned Kelly Khumalo’s name instead. Winnie Khumalo tragically passed away at the age of 51 due to health complications.
Although Shahan corrected the mistake on air and later issued an apology, Kelly Khumalo expressed outrage over the blunder, labeling it “reckless, ignorant, and disrespectful.”
In an Instagram post, Kelly lashed out at the news channel, stating: “I don’t care. This is reckless, period! Put yourself in my shoes.” She also hinted at legal action, writing, “Start calling our legal team. We are about to be rich!”
Shahan Ramkissoon’s Apology Draws Mixed Reactions
Ramkissoon issued a formal apology on social media, explaining the mix-up as a “slip of the tongue” while ad-libbing the story. He tweeted:
“I made an honest mistake, which I corrected shortly afterward on air. It was a slip of the tongue as I ad-libbed the story. I take full responsibility for the error.”
However, the news anchor’s follow-up comment sparked further controversy: “To those seeking to amplify this for attention: do what you must [to] trend and stay blessed.”
While some social media users accepted his explanation, others criticized the tone of his statement, interpreting it as dismissive.
The incident has sparked widespread discussion about accountability in journalism and the impact of public errors on individuals’ lives.