In a recent statement, celebrity blogger and entertainment journalist Phil Mphela took aim at former Mayor of Johannesburg, Mpho Phalatse, after she celebrated Prophet Benny Hinn’s scheduled visit to South Africa on 22 October 2026, advising the public not to miss what she referred to as a “life-changing encounter.”
Understanding Benny Hinn
Benny Hinn is a well-known figure surrounded by controversy. The American-Israeli televangelist has been criticized for his teachings on prosperity gospel and his fundraising approaches over the years. Both critics and former associates question how the contributions from his worldwide congregation are utilized. Phalatse expressed her enthusiasm on X, stating:
“Prophet Benny Hinn has landed South Africa!! Whatever your plans this weekend, you cannot afford to miss this life-changing encounter we’re about to experience, personally and as a nation. I’m believing God for personal upliftment through a real encounter with JESUS.”
Mphela, active on X under the handle @PhilMphela, was quick to respond, calling out the televangelist. He accused Benny Hinn of preying on the desperate and vulnerable, asserting:
“This man destroyed lives. Stole from vulnerable people to enrich himself. We have well-documented a life of fraud and prosperity gospel gifting. Even his own family members have exposed his evil ways to exploit the poor and desperate. Mpho, do not lead your own people to this man to be scammed.”
Public Reaction to the Benny Hinn Debate
Reactions from social media users came in swiftly, with individuals divided between supporting Mphela’s caution and defending Phalatse’s expression of faith.
@ThulaniCdlamini commented:
“The main problem with South Africans is that they are biblically illiterate; if they knew the Bible, they wouldn’t entertain these charlatans!”
@LethaboS2 tagged Phalatse, simply saying:
“Come here.”
@nkulee123 contributed in both isiZulu and English, writing:
“Uyodla e blue tick! People love being led futhi le genge yabomzalwane.”
