Kwesta and Herman Mashaba Clash Online Over DJ Warras’ Death
Rapper Kwesta has publicly responded to comments made by businessman and former Johannesburg mayor Herman Mashaba following the death of DJ Warras.
DJ Warras was shot and killed in the Johannesburg Central Business District on Tuesday, December 16, 2025.
Kwesta Clashes with Herman Mashaba
The conversation began after Ulrich Janse van Vuuren shared a tribute to the late DJ, writing:
“Always viewed DJ Warras as someone who passionately cared about people and South Africa. Such tragic news of his untimely passing. Rest in peace. My condolences to his family.”
Mashaba replied with a quote tweet, framing the tragedy in the context of his political work:
“I’m devastated that this great patriot died for the cause I have dedicated my political life to, the Inner City Rejuvenation Plan. I know and appreciate that DJ Warras is no more, but I want to assure all South Africans that his death is not going to be in vain, unless they kill all of us.”
Also Read: DJ Warras Killed In Johannesburg CBD Drive-By Shooting
Kwesta Challenges the Narrative
Kwesta entered the discussion with a pointed response to Mashaba, challenging the way the tragedy was framed:
“The man hit you up, sibhekile sonke (we were all watching). Fairness may dictate that this too be ignored. MORE! Let’s do that. Nothing has been enough except the lives we keep losing. With all due.”
The rapper’s words drew attention across social media, with many users echoing his concerns about fairness, accountability, and the repeated loss of life in Johannesburg’s inner city.
Social Media Debates Public Safety and Politics
The online exchange has triggered a broader conversation on X, with users questioning whether political framing of such tragedies is appropriate. Others highlighted ongoing public safety concerns in Johannesburg and the responsibility of leaders to address violent crime without politicising personal loss.
As tributes to DJ Warras continue, the debate between Kwesta and Mashaba illustrates how social media is increasingly shaping public discourse around crime, politics, and accountability in the city.