Podcast and Chill co-host Sol Phenduka has broken his silence following intense backlash over a cryptic social media post he shared shortly before the death of popular DJ and broadcaster DJ Warras was officially confirmed.
The controversial tweet, posted in the early hours of Tuesday, 16 December 2025, immediately caused alarm across social media platforms. Without naming anyone, Phenduka hinted that a well-known figure in South Africa’s entertainment industry had passed away. The vague wording left many followers confused and anxious, triggering widespread speculation online.
As the hours passed and news outlets later confirmed the tragic death of DJ Warras, emotions intensified. Numerous social media users turned their frustration toward Phenduka, accusing him of being insensitive and irresponsible for posting such a message without providing clarity. Critics argued that his tweet unnecessarily caused panic and distress, especially among fans and colleagues of the late DJ.
Sol Phenduka explains his decision to stay silent
In response to the backlash, Sol Phenduka explained that his decision not to mention names was deliberate and based on respect for the deceased and his family. Speaking to the Daily Sun, the broadcaster emphasised that he had not received permission to publicly disclose the information at the time.
“I didn’t reveal any names because I had not received consent and I was respecting the family,” Phenduka said.
He further explained that the tweet was posted during a moment of shock after hearing disturbing reports that had not yet been officially confirmed. According to Phenduka, his emotional state played a role in how the message was shared.
“I was reacting emotionally to the news I heard and hoping it wasn’t true,” he added.
Phenduka maintained that he never intended to sensationalise the situation or cause unnecessary fear. Instead, he described the post as a spontaneous reaction rooted in disbelief and concern rather than a calculated attempt to break news prematurely.
The popular radio personality and podcaster also offered heartfelt condolences to DJ Warras’ family, friends, and fans, acknowledging the pain his post may have caused.
“I never meant to cause worry. My thoughts are with DJ Warras’ loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” he said.
Despite his explanation, the incident reignited debate around the role of public figures on social media, particularly when it comes to sharing unconfirmed or sensitive information. Many users argued that influential personalities like Sol Phenduka have a responsibility to exercise caution, especially in moments involving death and tragedy.
Others, however, came to his defence, noting that grief affects people differently and that Phenduka’s intentions were not malicious. Supporters pointed out that he has previously used his platform responsibly and that the backlash overlooked the emotional weight of the situation.
Following the official confirmation of DJ Warras’ death, Sol Phenduka continued to speak out, shifting focus toward broader issues affecting Johannesburg. In a series of posts, he called on former Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba to take stronger action against crime in the city.
Phenduka resurfaced an earlier message shared by DJ Warras, in which the late broadcaster had publicly appealed to Mashaba for intervention to curb crime in the Johannesburg CBD. Tragically, the same area later became the location where DJ Warras was killed, a fact that deeply disturbed many South Africans.
By highlighting the post, Phenduka aimed to draw attention to what he described as long-standing safety concerns that have repeatedly been raised by residents, artists, and business owners in the city.
The death of DJ Warras has once again sparked national conversations about crime, accountability, and the safety of public spaces. For Sol Phenduka, the incident has been both a personal and public ordeal—one marked by grief, criticism, and reflection.
While opinions remain divided over his initial tweet, Phenduka’s response underscores the complexities of navigating social media during moments of tragedy. As South Africa mourns the loss of DJ Warras, the focus now turns to honoring his legacy while addressing the issues he passionately spoke about during his lifetime.