“Bengicela” by MaWhoo Jazzwrld, GL Ceejay and Thukuthela has been nominated for Ukhozi FM Song of the Year.
Image: Instagram
Ukhozi FM has issued a response following mounting concerns around its Song of the Year voting process, after voters and artists raised questions about the automated SMS confirmation messages received after voting.
Several listeners reported that when they voted for their preferred songs, the confirmation message encouraged them to “continue voting for Song A", regardless of the song code they had submitted.
Song A refers to “Mamma” by Zee Nxumalo, Skillz and Sykes, which is among the Top 10 shortlisted songs.
The matter gained wider attention after maskandi artist, Umafikizolo, who is also competing in the Top 10 with his song “Uyoncengwa Unyoko”, took to social media to address the complaints. He said that supporters informed him that when they voted for Song F, his song, they received an SMS congratulating Song A instead.
“Is this really how it is supposed to be?” he asked, adding a confused emoji in his post.
Singer MaWhoo, who is nominated for “Bengicela” alongside Jazzwrld, GL Ceejay and Thukuthela, also commented on the issue after reviewing feedback from her followers. She said that fans claimed that when they voted for Song E, her song, the automated reply congratulated another artist.
“Akungadliwa amandla ethu nathi siyazizamela bakwethu,” she wrote, stressing that the efforts of all artists in the category should not be undermined, as everyone is working hard.
“Independent Media Lifestyle” also tested the voting system by submitting votes for two different songs that were not Song A and received the same confirmation message referencing Song A.
This has fuelled public concern, with some voters questioning the credibility of the process and alleging that votes may be automatically redirected in favour of one song.
In response, SABC head of communications Mmoni Ngubane said Ukhozi FM takes the integrity of its Ingoma Ehlukanisa Unyaka campaign seriously.
“Ukhozi FM understands the responsibility that comes with managing a listener-driven voting campaign,” she said.
Ngubane explained that voting is conducted through an SMS based platform that records each vote according to the song code submitted by the listener.
“The voting system captures and logs key data points, including the song code, time stamp and mobile number, to ensure accurate allocation of votes,” she said.
She confirmed that an issue was identified with the automated SMS confirmation messages. “This issue resulted in confirmation replies not always reflecting the selected song correctly,” Ngubane said.
“Importantly, this matter relates to the confirmation message layer only and does not impact the recording or allocation of votes.”
Ngubane added that corrective action has since been implemented and that additional monitoring measures are now in place to prevent a recurrence. She also confirmed that an independent auditor has been overseeing the campaign from the start.
“This independent oversight allows verification of voting data and confirmation that votes are recorded accurately and fairly,” she said.
She noted that the process is overseen by Ukhozi FM’s campaign team, an independent audit team and the SMS service provider.
“Ukhozi FM is committed to ensuring that all artists compete on an equal and fair footing and that every vote, including paid votes, is treated with care and accuracy,” Ngubane said.
She concluded by stating, “The final outcome will be based on verified voting data, supported by independent audit processes,” adding that the station values listener engagement and remains committed to transparency and accountability.