Ringo Madlingozi, the celebrated Afro-pop king and EFF MP, has decided to end his marriage to his wife Nomfundo Nyathi after a decade of struggling to reconcile their differences.
News that Madlingozi and Nyathi are heading for divorce was revealed by the former love-birds’ associates who had hoped the couple would find a way to resolve their issues and grow old together. Madlingozi's lawyers recently informed Nyathi of his intention to file for divorce, marking the end of their union just a year before Madlingozi's retirement age and five years before Nyathi enters a new phase of life. At 59 years old, Madlingozi is reaching the end of his career, while Nyathi is 55.
Sources close to the couple revealed the heartbreaking news, expressing their shock at Madlingozi's decision. Although they had been separated for about a decade, friends and associates had remained hopeful that Madlingozi and Nyathi would reconcile. Following their separation, Nyathi moved to Midrand, while Madlingozi resided in Buccleuh, north of Johannesburg. Despite attempts to mend their relationship, they were unable to find common ground.
“The hammer has fallen, it’s over. We are gutted. But what can we do? It is what it is,” said the associate, who did not want to be named for fear of comprising the relationship with the former couple.
According to one associate, Madlingozi decided to file for divorce because he and Nyathi no longer shared the same aspirations and dreams, leading to a loss of affection between them. The associate also disclosed that the couple had already signed a settlement agreement, which is expected to be formalized by the court. The agreement reportedly ensures that both parties retain their assets and pension funds.
“I have seen it. It doesn’t say much, except to say that they will both keep their assets and pension funds,” said the associate.
This is not the first time their marital issues have come to light. In April 2008, It was revealed that Nyathi had left their shared home due to concerns about Madlingozi's relationships with other women and his absence from their marital bed. However, Nyathi declined to comment on the current situation, while Madlingozi was unavailable for a statement.
The disintegration of their marriage will be a blow to Madlingozi and Nyathi’s loved ones as they had prayed and hoped the two would resolve their differences and age together as husband and wife.
