Lekompo artist Nkgodisheng Paul Madubanya, known as Tsaka RSA, appeared in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court. Image credit supplied
The State has added a Tsaka RSA statutory rape charge to the case against the popular Lekompo artist. Nkgodisheng Paul Madubanya, 27, appeared in the Polokwane Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where prosecutors also added a charge of failing to keep a firearm in a prescribed safe.
State prosecutor Mangope Digoro told the court about the two new charges. In response, defence advocate Tibane asked for more time to study them. Magistrate Mpho Hadebe then postponed the case to Wednesday, 21 October, for a formal bail application. Madubanya remains in custody until then.
The State has already said it will oppose bail. The new charges are allegations, and the court has not yet tested them.
What led to the Tsaka RSA statutory rape charge
Madubanya first landed in trouble on Friday, 9 October. Police arrived at his home in Rethabile Gardens, Polokwane, to arrest him in a separate matter. During the operation, officers allegedly found a 9mm pistol with a filed off serial number and 52 rounds of ammunition. As a result, he faced charges of possessing an unlicensed firearm and ammunition.
The statutory rape charge relates to an alleged incident earlier this year. To protect the complainant, the court and media have not shared any identifying details.
For readers unfamiliar with the term, statutory rape refers to sexual acts with a child below the legal age of consent. Under South African law, such acts are a crime even if the child appears to agree. This is because the law holds that children cannot legally consent.
Meanwhile, Madubanya also faces a separate case in Lebowakgomo. In that matter, he is charged with crimen injuria over alleged vulgar and insulting social media posts about a Thobela FM radio presenter. Police arrested him for that case on the same day as the firearm discovery. That matter returns to court on Friday, 23 October.
Tsaka RSA rose to fame through Lekompo, a fast growing music genre born in Limpopo. The genre is known for its energetic beats and dance moves, and it has a huge following on social media. Madubanya also built a large online audience as a content creator.
Commentary across social media platforms has turned sharply since the new charges emerged. Many former fans have expressed shock and disappointment. Others have urged the public to let the court process run its course.
Read more