Gogo Skhotheni, also known as Tumi Motsoeneng, has recently shared a heart-wrenching revelation about the physical abuse she has endured at the hands of her estranged husband, Monde Shange. The traditional healer and DJ, who has become a well-known figure in South African entertainment, had previously announced her separation from Shange, only to later reveal that they had reconciled. However, it appears that their reunion was short-lived, as Skhotheni has once again left her husband and has become a victim of domestic violence.
In a series of emotional posts, Gogo Skhotheni opened up about the abuse she has suffered, sharing photos of the bruises she sustained as a result of Shange’s violent actions. Alongside the images, she also posted a screenshot of a WhatsApp conversation with her estranged husband, in which she confronted him about his behavior. “Monde, are you going to beat me up every time you see me, even if we are not together?” she asked in the conversation, highlighting the ongoing threat she faces even after leaving their marital home.
Skhotheni’s public disclosure of the abuse comes after she had previously tried to downplay the situation. “This is because I was bashed, and last time people blamed me; then I had to pretend as if ayikho lento (there is nothing), but now I can see Monde Shange will kill me. I know I had my flaws,” she admitted, revealing the fear and despair she now feels. Despite her efforts to move on from the marriage, the abuse has continued, with Skhotheni emphasizing that the root of their marital problems was not infidelity but mutual disrespect.
“I left my marriage and our marital home, so manje ungishayelani (why are you hitting me?) Monde Shange,” she questioned, expressing confusion and frustration over the ongoing violence. She further elaborated on the reasons behind their separation, stating, “Yes, we both did each other wrong. What broke our marriage was not cheating but the disrespect we had for each other.” However, she was particularly disturbed by the fact that Shange’s violent behavior occurred in the presence of their young daughter, Liyana. “But why are you hitting me, especially in front of your lovely daughter Liyana?” she asked, underscoring the traumatic impact this abuse could have on their child.
Despite the compelling evidence presented by Gogo Skhotheni, her estranged husband has denied any wrongdoing, claiming that he has not harmed her. This situation marks the second report of domestic abuse involving a public figure within a short span, following Mihlali Ndamase’s recent accusations against her partner, Leeroy Sidambe.
Gogo Skhotheni’s brave decision to speak out about the abuse she has endured shines a light on the ongoing issue of domestic violence, particularly in relationships where power dynamics and public scrutiny play significant roles. As she continues to navigate this challenging period, her story serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of supporting those who are victims of abuse and holding perpetrators accountable.