Former Minister Bathabile Dlamini Comes Under Fire After Video of Her Getting Botox Goes Viral
A video of former South African minister Bathabile Dlamini receiving Botox injections has gone viral—prompting a wave of online mockery, accusations, and unsolicited opinions.
The 62-year-old former ANC Women’s League president and cabinet minister has once again found herself trending, this time not for politics or controversy—but for her pursuit of smoother skin.
“Consistent in Her Skincare Journey”
The clip, shared on TikTok and reposted on X, shows Dlamini receiving wrinkle-reducing Botox on her forehead and crow’s feet from celebrity aesthetics doctor Sandi Dyonase.
Former Minister Bathabile Dlamini Comes Under Fire After Video of Her Getting Botox Goes Viral (Image Credit: News24/ X @MDN News)According to Dr. Sandi, Dlamini is a regular client and has a personalised treatment plan designed to suit her skincare needs.
“Well done to Mama Bathabile for being consistent in her skincare journey throughout the years,” he captioned the post.
Accusations and Mockery Flood Social Media
While Botox is a common cosmetic choice for many women, Dlamini’s decision to share her procedure publicly opened the floodgates for criticism. Some South Africans took to the comments section to shame her age, question whether she was using taxpayer money, and even mock her past legal troubles.
Others threw shade by insinuating that Botox may be ineffective due to her alleged history with alcohol abuse—allegations Dlamini has long denied.
Doctor Defends Dlamini, Cites Medical Condition
In response to the backlash, Dr. Sandi issued a public statement defending his client.
“She [Bathabile Dlamini] does not drink alcohol. Her behavior is often misunderstood due to her battle with epilepsy, which required her to adjust her medication,” he explained.
“This condition can be challenging and is often mistaken for something it is not. Please, let’s show kindness.”
The former minister has previously spoken out against claims of alcohol abuse during her time in office, calling them baseless and damaging.
Here are some of the reactions;
@FootballStage_1;
she is old..she must rest mos
@Melusi_Mokone
She should’ve asked Khanyi before proceeding.😪
We will be there no matter what 💀💀
@ChrisExcel102;
I thought black don’t crack unless the owner is careless..but anyway, yes wena gal..
@IamOkuhle;
She doesnt want to look old or what? Why do blacks use european skincare?
@Marupin;
🤣🤣🤣She’s looking for baby face 😝🤭…Those needles will not get rid of that phuza face though 😂🤣
@mas;
I wish she could learn that aging has no reverse. It’s a one way street and no point of return or amount of looted states money can change ageism. Mxm.
@2020EnufIsEnuf;
SASSA grants working overtime
Doctor Defends Dlamini, Cites Medical Condition
In response to the backlash, Dr. Sandi issued a public statement defending his client.
“She [Bathabile Dlamini] does not drink alcohol. Her behavior is often misunderstood due to her battle with epilepsy, which required her to adjust her medication,” he explained.
“This condition can be challenging and is often mistaken for something it is not. Please, let’s show kindness.”
The former minister has previously spoken out against claims of alcohol abuse during her time in office, calling them baseless and damaging.