Metro FM presenter Somizi Mhlongo has taken time off following allegations of domestic abuse levelled against him by his estranged husband Mohale Motoung.
Metro FM presenter Somizi Mhlongo taken time off

On Monday the SABC came under fire for not acting swiftly against the media personality in light of Motaung’s abuse claims.

The public broadcaster confirmed on Wednesday that The Bridge host was off air after a meeting with Metro FM management on Tuesday.

“The SABC can confirm that Metro FM management met with Somizi Mhlongo and he has requested to take some time off from work.

Management has granted Mhlongo permission to do so,” SABC said in a statement.

On Monday, public calls were cut out on Mhlongo’s show after listeners lobbied to interrupt its popular section Ask A Man in which Mhlongo gives relationship advice.

“The corporation has also noted the comments on social media about Mhlongo and we would like to point out that the public service broadcaster does not condone any acts of abuse and violence,” the radio station said.

In a leaked audio recording between Motaung and Legend Manqele, the former producer of Mhlongo’s reality TV show Living The Dream with Somizi, Motaung is heard detailing how he suffered alleged abuse at the hands of the Idols judge.