In a striking and emotional statement, noted inyanga (traditional healer) Bhaka “King Bhaka” Nzama has criticized fellow healer Dr. Khehlelezi for allegedly exploiting public knowledge to make prophetic claims. This controversy erupted following the unfortunate diagnosis of Ukhozi FM presenter Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule, who was diagnosed with lung cancer in May and sadly passed away on August 12.
The crux of the dispute lies in Dr. Khehlelezi’s prediction that two Ukhozi FM presenters would die within the year. Bhaka contends that such proclamations were based on information that was already widely known. He argues that Zanele’s family had been transparent about her illness, which should have precluded anyone from claiming they foresaw her fate.
“The practice of protecting patients’ health information, whether in traditional or modern medicine, is paramount. Bhaka emphasized that maintaining confidentiality helps to prevent opportunistic behaviors from those who wield the term ‘prophecy’ without genuine insight. He further stated, “When Zanele was ill, the nation was supposed to rally around her and her family rather than engage in the dissemination of fake prophecies.”
The public response to Dr. Khehlelezi’s prediction has been sharply divided. For some, he appears to have a knack for foresight, while others rightfully question the ethics of making predictions based on publicly shared information. In the eyes of Bhaka, this raises a significant ethical dilemma — how do we balance the power of higher knowledge with the need for compassion towards those facing health challenges?
Drawing attention to the sensitive nature of illness, Bhaka spoke on the destructive impact of making dire predictions, stating, “No one has the right to inform a cancer patient about their supposed mortality. Doctors themselves refrain from making such grim declarations, knowing the pressure it brings upon the patient.” This statement underscores a critical point about the burden of knowledge: while it may seem relevant to predict outcomes, it often comes at an emotional cost to those involved.
Zanele’s family handled their public disclosure with honesty, which, in Bhaka’s view, should have fostered a supportive atmosphere rather than one riddled with prophecy and speculation. He also pointed out a crucial aspect of ethical healing practices — the responsibility of practitioners to avoid making sensational claims that can add to the distress of patients and their families.
Moreover, in fiercely defending Zanele’s legacy, Bhaka refuted the notion that there was any crisis leading to the deaths of presenters at Ukhozi FM, questioning why only certain individuals seemed to be affected. “If there is truly a problem at Ukhozi FM, then why are the other presenters not facing similar fates?” he asked, prompting deeper reflection on the narratives that surround health and mortality.