Musa Mseleku, the well-known polygamist and star of the reality show Uthando Nes’thembu, is once again making headlines.
Mseleku's polygamous lifestyle, featuring four wives already, has long been a subject of intense public debate. While some admire his commitment to cultural tradition and personal choice, others criticise it as reinforcing patriarchal norms and gender inequality. The addition of a fifth wife, Samke Khwela (whose social media presence has since become private), is set to significantly reshape the family dynamic already shown in the 24 episodes, airing twice weekly on Wednesdays and Thursdays.
M-Net director for local entertainment channels, Shirley Adonisi, explained the expanded format: “We listened to your feedback and are thrilled to offer more episodes than in previous seasons. No more agonising cliff-hangers. Now with two episodes dropping each week, you can dive right back into the heart of the action.”
In a recent interview, Mseleku addressed the significance of his expanding family. He clarified that the addition of a fifth wife is not simply a personal milestone but a strategic move aimed at ensuring the continuation of his lineage. He stated: “Wife number five is not going to determine how my life will develop as I grow. Taking a young wife has several advantages. And I am positive that she will be able to carry forward the rest of the generation.”
This statement directly addresses his long-held ambition to father a large family, ideally, up to twenty children. However, this ambition is not without its obstacles. Mseleku acknowledges that some of his existing wives have taken steps to limit their childbearing.
He explained: “I know that some of my wives ensure that they prevent having more children. So, my dream is not possible under these circumstances. I cannot say I am leaving this to my sons. Because they will have children of their own and their families, but mine is to guide them.”
The decision to marry again has not been universally welcomed within the Mseleku household. The show's trailer showcases the potential for conflict, with some wives expressing their dissatisfaction and even threatening to leave if Mseleku proceeds with his plans.
One of the wives, MaCele, will navigate the complexities of welcoming a new addition to the family. Meanwhile, MaYeni will grapple with her feelings of being sidelined, while MaKhumalo faces her own personal struggles amidst the significant changes. MaNgwabe finds herself at a crossroads, questioning whether to remain in her marriage.
Mseleku, however, remains resolute in his commitment to his chosen lifestyle. He stated: “If they decide to leave, it will be a sad thing, but I cannot stop them. I always make sure they do not leave, but I cannot share the secret of how I manage this.” This unwavering commitment underscores the central theme of the show: the delicate balance between tradition, personal beliefs, and the complexities of modern relationships.
The reality show itself has added another layer to Mseleku's life. He acknowledges the intense scrutiny that comes with public exposure and the need to protect his children from external judgment.
Despite this pressure, he expresses confidence in his children's resilience and ability to make sound decisions: “My children know what is good and bad for them. So, the biggest protection comes from them rather than me. Mpumelelo Mseleku is bound to make mistakes because he is young. But with time, he will be a great person.”
The new season promises to delve into these family dynamics, offering viewers an intimate look into the lives of this unique South African family. The introduction of Samke Khwela, symbolised by the placing of the isicholo (traditional Zulu hat) on her head, is a pivotal moment that will undoubtedly shape the course of the upcoming season.
