Penuel faces backlash over ‘insensitive’ comments about Cwecwe’s rape case
Controversial podcaster Penuel Mlotshwa is once again facing backlash — this time for comments he made about Cwecwe, a seven-year-old girl who was reportedly raped at her school in the Eastern Cape.
In a since-deleted post on X (formerly Twitter), Penuel expressed doubts about the case, sparking outrage across social media.
The case, which reportedly occurred in October 2024, only recently came to public attention.
According to Police Minister Senzo Mchunu, there are currently “no witnesses, no suspects, and no foreign DNA found” in the ongoing investigation.
Still, many felt Penuel’s comments were not only insensitive but reckless.
He wrote: “I don’t see this case going any further, to be honest. The credibility of a seven-year-old is also questionable, even if she pointed out the perpetrator. At this point, we can’t even confirm if she was really raped or not. It’s tough.”
WTF ??? pic.twitter.com/OXoDkmdnL4
— Danilo (@odedanilo) April 5, 2025
The remarks caused immediate outrage online, with many accusing him of victim-blaming and undermining the trauma of a child.
One user, @BafanaSurprise, reacted: “This is what a father had to say about poor Cwecwe, who suffered the worst tragedy! This man is mentally ill.”
Another user, @NeneLeakesWigs, clapped back: “Penuel, you are disgusting. Cwecwe was examined by three doctors who all said she was violated. Are you saying you know better than medical professionals?”
@Miss_Thiqueness added: “And that is why I am Penuel’s biggest hater. What kind of person questions the credibility of a 7-year-old rape victim?”
While Penuel may have deleted the post, screenshots and criticism continue to circulate
