Popular radio personality and reality TV star DJ Finzo has broken his silence following allegations of accepting payola, expressing deep emotional distress and fear for his personal wellbeing. The former Giants of the City cast member, known for his work at Lesedi FM, says the accusations have caused him immense psychological strain, to the point where he has considered ending his life.
“This whole thing of being fired for payola nonsense has taken a toll on me. I can’t even face the world as I feel dejected,” he said, speaking emotionally about the toll the situation has taken on his mental health.
DJ Finzo, whose real name is Phineas ‘DJ Finzo’ Monchusi, claims he is being unfairly targeted in a situation that has been blown out of proportion. According to him, the payment he received was for a booking — not a bribe to play music on the airwaves.
“These guys wanted to know why their music wasn’t played during the day. I told them I compile music for evening shows and don’t have control over the daytime playlists. I never asked them for money, and certainly not for payola.”
The embattled DJ says he tried to clarify the misunderstanding with colleagues and management, many of whom have shown support. However, he alleges that another individual involved in the situation, Mannini, escalated the matter further by reporting him to senior SABC officials in Johannesburg.
“Mannini is evil,” Finzo said. “She knows very well that I never forced anyone to give me money. She even admitted that to Gesh Lido. But she still took this further just to protect herself.”
Finzo also claimed he attempted to reach out to Lesedi FM business manager, Mamontha Motaung, for support, but was met with reluctance.
“I tried to speak to Mme Mamontha Motaung, but she told me she didn’t want to be involved in programming issues because it once got her into trouble. I understand her position, but I feel abandoned.”
The DJ further pleaded for the story not to be published, highlighting the devastating effect it could have on his loved ones.
“This story will destroy many people — my child, my aged parents. I don’t think they can handle this kind of drama. Please, I’m asking you to leave the story, bro waka,” he said with emotion.
While the storm around him intensifies, DJ Finzo maintains his innocence and insists that the payment he received had nothing to do with influencing music airplay.
“I’m not the villain here,” he said. “This is BS of the highest order.”