Popular South African musician Gezani Eric Kobane, also known as Papa Penny, has officially become a member of parliament. Recently sworn in as an MP for the MK Party, Kobane is enthusiastic about his new role and is committed to being a strong advocate for those who lack representation.
Kobane was featured on Baba Harare’s album “Prove Them Wrong,” contributing to the track “Bam Bam.”
In an interview with TimesLIVE, Kobane expressed his gratitude to MK Party leader Jacob Zuma for his belief and support. “I’m thankful to Zuma for recognizing my potential as a politician. I’m not here to play around; I’m here to represent the people,” he said.
Prior to joining the MK Party in May, Kobane served as a councillor in Giyani for the ANC from 2011. He left the ANC due to a lack of support and jealousy stemming from his music career. “The ANC didn’t support my efforts to provide water and avocados to the community. They were envious of my popularity and hindered my initiatives. In 2021, they even tried to remove me because of my fame. I was relieved when Zuma started the MK Party, as I no longer wanted to stay with the ANC,” Kobane explained.
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While he holds no personal animosity towards the ANC, Kobane criticized their unfulfilled promises. “We don’t get along, but we’re not at odds. I don’t hate them; I just disagree with their false promises.”
With 13 years of government experience and an active career in the arts, Kobane is confident he can make a significant impact in the MK Party. He aims to focus on sports, arts, and culture, leveraging his artistic background to address issues such as poverty, inadequate service delivery, and unemployment, and to support struggling South African artists.
Other MPs sworn in alongside Kobane include Brian Molefe, Siyabonga Gama, Tshepo Lucky Montana, Thulani Innocent Gumede, Thembinkosi Siboniso Mjadu, Mzwanele Manyi, and Nompumelelo Matilda Gasa.
Despite some skepticism about his role in the National Assembly, Kobane remains confident. He has a track record of contributing to community infrastructure and providing support, and he plans to continue his music career with upcoming performances in Ethiopia and Australia.
