Capricorn FM has reportedly declined to play Limpopo musician **Shebeshxt’s** popular song **“Rato Laka”** as the official track to usher in the **2026 New Year**, citing concerns linked to the artist’s ongoing legal challenges. The decision has sparked widespread discussion within the entertainment industry and among music fans across the country.
According to information shared by insiders, the station’s **music committee** initially proposed “Rato Laka” as the song to mark the countdown into the new year, given its massive popularity and strong presence on airwaves throughout 2025. However, the proposal was later overturned by senior management after careful deliberations about the broader implications of associating the station with an artist facing serious criminal allegations.
The internal discussions reportedly took place on **New Year’s Eve**, just hours before midnight, as the station finalised its festive programming. While acknowledging the song’s success and its resonance with listeners, management ultimately decided that it would not be appropriate to feature it at such a symbolic moment. The station’s leadership is said to have prioritised ethical responsibility and public perception over popularity.
Shebeshxt, whose real name is **Lehlogonolo Katlego Chauke**, is currently facing **multiple criminal charges**, including **attempted murder**, following a shooting incident that allegedly occurred in **Polokwane, Limpopo**, in October 2025. The incident reportedly involved a road-rage altercation during which shots were fired at another vehicle, leaving one person injured and hospitalised.
Following his arrest in November 2025, Shebeshxt was charged with at least two counts of attempted murder. Additional charges reportedly include **possession of an unlicensed firearm** and **malicious damage to property**. Authorities have indicated that the case is being treated with seriousness due to the violent nature of the allegations.
The artist has since been **denied bail**, with the court ruling that releasing him could pose a risk to public safety. His legal team appealed the decision, but the ruling was upheld by the **Limpopo High Court** earlier this month, meaning Shebeshxt remains behind bars as legal proceedings continue.
Capricorn FM management has defended its decision, explaining that the station has a responsibility to its audience and the communities it serves. Station leadership reportedly felt that playing the song during the New Year countdown could be interpreted as endorsing or overlooking serious allegations of violence, which would be inconsistent with the broadcaster’s values.
The move has divided public opinion. Some fans argue that music should be separated from an artist’s personal life and legal matters, insisting that “Rato Laka” remains a cultural hit regardless of current events. Others have applauded the station for taking a firm stance, saying media platforms should be mindful of the messages they amplify, especially during moments of national celebration.
As the debate continues, Capricorn FM’s decision highlights the ongoing tension between celebrating popular culture and maintaining ethical standards in broadcasting. The situation also underscores the broader conversation around accountability, influence, and responsibility within South Africa’s entertainment industry.
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