Mawhoo dragged for promoting drinking and driving
South African artist MaWhoo is facing significant backlash on social media after featuring in a car commercial that appeared to show her drinking alcohol before driving.
The singer, whose real name is Thandeka Nontobeko Ngema, appeared in an advertisement showcasing the Jaecoo J5, a new vehicle model.
This campaign set out to convey messages of luxury and innovation but unexpectedly attracted criticism.
The advertisement, initially posted by entertainment commentator Musa Khawula on 5 October 2025, depicted MaWhoo having a picnic with a charcuterie board while sipping champagne, before she gets behind the wheel and drives off.
Immediate criticism followed, as many viewers accused both her and the brand of promoting dangerous actions.
Critics online labeled the advert as improper, highlighting that driving under the influence is a major contributor to traffic deaths in South Africa.
The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) states that alcohol is responsible for about 27% of road fatalities across the nation.
In response to the backlash, Jaecoo quickly took down the advertisement from its official channels.
Nonetheless, the clip continues to circulate extensively on social media, raising questions about its original approval.
Shannon Gahagan, National Brand and Marketing Manager for Jaecoo and Omoga, addressed the situation in a statement to News24, reaffirming the brand’s commitment to responsible behavior.
“We remain unwavering in our stance against drinking and driving, and will continue to promote responsibility and uphold the highest standards across our community,” Gahagan stated.
See the video below:
A look inside MaWhoo’s Jaecoo advertisement. pic.twitter.com/Q2tklXmqj8
— Musa Khawula (@Musa_Khawula) October 5, 2025
