By Charmaine Ndlela
Big Brother Mzansi has issued multiple strikes and disciplinary measures to several housemates following a series of rule violations that sparked backlash from viewers and advocacy groups.
Thandeka, Ramona and Liema were each handed single strikes after breaking house rules.
Liema received her strike for provocation, bullying, and taking private property belonging to a fellow housemate.
Thandeka and Ramona were penalised for making derogatory remarks about Ilano Sky’s identity and for refusing to participate in a wager task.
The disciplinary action follows controversy over transphobic remarks directed at Ilano Sky, which led to a petition that had gathered more than 13,000 signatures at the time of writing, calling for accountability from the show.
Well-known transgender media personality Dominic Zaca weighed in on social media, expressing solidarity with Ilano while criticising the programme’s handling of the incident.
“Ilano Sky, you are the first. They will attack you, but your presence has done more than you can imagine,” Zaca wrote. “Big Brother Mzansi, fix it! Your discrimination, which you allow, has been in our faces for far too long. Women are so comfortable with homophobia and transphobia they don’t even realise the benefits of gay rights and how intertwined we are.”
As calls for intervention intensified, Big Brother gathered housemates on Sunday afternoon to address rule-breaking incidents.
Trixie received a double strike for inciting violence and provocation, placing her at risk of automatic disqualification should she receive another strike. Liema was again sanctioned for withholding another housemate’s property, along with bullying and provocation.
Didi was banned from participating in the Head of House challenge after throwing a cup at Thandeka and risking damage to production property. Meanwhile, Tumi received a final warning for pushing fellow housemate Mshefane.
Big Brother reminded contestants to play fairly and adhere to the rulebook, which prohibits violence, intimidation, physical contact with the outside world, and tampering with equipment while wearing microphones at all times.
Rule 7 states that housemates may not strike, threaten, or engage in behaviour that could be interpreted as violent toward others, with violations potentially leading to immediate disqualification.
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