Brother Enigma, the internet sensation whose pronouncements claim divine origin, has found himself in hot water after targeting Pastor Lungi M in a recent podcast appearance. For the past three months, Phillip Poniponi Thosa, the man behind the Enigma persona, has been sharing what he describes as heavenly revelations, warning people about their lifestyles.
While some embrace his messages, many find his claims far-fetched. His latest pronouncements, however, have sparked a potential legal battle.
In an episode on the Podcast Chris Network, Brother Enigma launched a scathing critique of Pastor Lungi M’s attire, deeming it "skimpy" and inappropriate for a woman in a pulpit. This follows previous pronouncements against women holding church leadership positions and wearing trousers in church.
Enigma’s comments were particularly pointed, with him describing Pastor Lungi M's clothing as revealing: "She wears wigs and jeans, showing her figure," he stated.
He went further, adding: "She wears wigs and jeans, showing her figure. She dressed like a mermaid, showing her hips. She is lost and is going to hell with the congregation."
Pastor Lungi M, however, is not taking these accusations lightly. In a statement to ZiMoja, she indicated her intention to pursue legal action if advised that Enigma’s words constitute defamation.
"If they advise that what he is saying is defamatory and demeaning, then I will definitely take the matter further with my legal team," she declared.
She firmly rejected Enigma’s criticisms of her attire, referencing a core tenet of her faith: "I can't let something like that slide. The Lord says come as you are. Whether people wear skirts or pants, they are coming as they are."
This latest controversy adds another layer to the ongoing debate surrounding Brother Enigma’s pronouncements. His claims to receive divine revelations have garnered a mixed reception, with some viewing him as a prophet delivering crucial messages, while others dismiss his words as sensationalist and unfounded.
His previous criticisms of women in church leadership roles and their clothing choices have already generated significant discussion and division. The fact that he has now directly targeted a prominent pastor, Pastor Lungi M, suggests that the intensity of this debate is likely to intensify.
The potential legal ramifications of Enigma’s statements against Pastor Lungi M are significant. The South African legal system has well-established mechanisms to address defamation, and Pastor Lungi M’s resolve to seek legal counsel indicates a serious intent to defend her reputation.
The incident also raises questions about the responsibility of public figures, particularly those who claim divine authority, in their public pronouncements. While freedom of speech is a fundamental right, it is not absolute and does not protect statements that are defamatory or otherwise harmful.
