Afrika Ndlovu

This past week saw the likes of Mbuso Sokhela popularly known as Dj Sox, Bongani Dlamini known as Dj Bongz and The Durban Jazz Festival pulling out from their respective categories.

“Due to poor execution and the non-transparent process of this year’s awards, including the fact that we were alerted on social media of the nominations with no consent or contact from the association or organizers,” said DJ Sox.

Gagasi FM which is a media sponsor for these awards is nominated under two categories for Best Event of The Year and Best Radio Station where they are up against other local radio stations like Vuma FM and East Coast radio. However the national broadcaster Ukhozi FM is also nominated under the same category which raised more eyebrows for many.

The Durban Jazz Festival pulled out on its nomination for Best Event of The Year against Gagasi FM Beach Festival and Durban Spring Break.

“We humbly withdraw our nomination for ‘Best Event of The Year’ which should epitomize the criteria and honor of such category. It is our best interests. As we believe we cannot compete with one of our existing sponsors, as well as the sponsors of the same sponsor for these particular awards at hand. This unfortunately gives the sponsor at hand with a greater advantage at airtime,” said Mdu Ngcobo, Co-founder of the festival.

“Gagasi FM will no longer be participating the ‘Best Event of The Year’ category because it is a conflict of interest,” shared Xolani Majozi, Chairman of the awards.

Xolani further added that personalities of the station will continue to participate in the awards seeing that the awards outcome are based on the votes of the public.

Xolani also shared that all nominees were sent letters of nominations on 16 November early this month, and they take full responsibility for not communicating prior with their nominees.

Picture: Twitter.com