Penuel Mlotshwa explains why March and March should not work with AfriForum

Outspoken podcaster Penuel Mlotshwa, famously known as 'The Black Pen', has voiced strong opposition to the blossoming partnership between March and March and AfriForum. On 19 August 2026, he warned that the movement's credibility is on the line following their recent high-profile engagement.

The warning comes after a delegation led by Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma met with AfriForum CEO Kallie Kriel on Tuesday, 18 August. The two parties reportedly agreed to form a joint working group, a move that has sparked intense debate across South African social media circles.

A Warning From a Former Insider

Mlotshwa’s critique carries weight because he was once a paying member of AfriForum himself. He previously admired the organization's work, including their legal support for the family of Senzo Meyiwa and their various community-focused initiatives.

However, his relationship with the lobby group soured when he felt their political agenda became problematic. He pointed specifically to their legal battles with EFF leader Julius Malema and their decision to take local grievance issues to the United States government.

Strategic Success vs. Reputation Risk

The podcaster admitted that he understands why leaders like Jacinta Ngobese-Zuma, Ngizwe Mchunu, and Phakel'umthakathi would look to AfriForum for inspiration. He acknowledged that their operational structure and institutional success are impressive models for any organization.

Despite these successes, Mlotshwa insists that the collaboration will ultimately backfire on March and March. He believes the association will alienate the movement's core supporters and lead to a significant public backlash that could be difficult to recover from.

Mixed Reactions to the Coalition

Mlotshwa is not the only public figure questioning the alliance. Ntsiki Mazwai has also weighed in with sharp remarks directed at Ngobese-Zuma, leading to heated exchanges between various activist camps online.

While Mlotshwa concluded by saying he hopes any joint efforts eventually serve the best interests of South Africa, his advice to March and March was blunt. He urged the leadership to cut ties and walk away from the deal before the damage becomes permanent.