Sport, Arts and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie has reportedly asked performing veteran Abigail Kubeka to retire from show business.
According to “Zimoja”, the charismatic minister made the comments over the weekend at a tribute concert held to honour the immense contributions the renowned singer and actress has made to the industry.
The event was held at the Joburg Theatre to celebrate the her 67-year legacy.
It saw the likes of Lira, Brenda Mtambo, Mdu Masilela, Trompies, Judy Page, Mara Louw, and Simmy taking to the stage, with Lerato Mvelase as the master of ceremonies.
Each artist performed their own hits, with a grand finale paying homage to Kubeka’s timeless music.
During the concert, McKenzie apparently asked the “Generations: The Legacy” star to retire and he also offered to fund her retirement.
“We need to take care of our stars. We owe her a lot for her contribution and it is only fair (that) we allow her to retire and rest,” he was quoted as saying at the event.
McKenzie’s remarks comes after Connie Chiume’s son revealed at her funeral last week that his mother was exploited. He said at the age of 70, she was required to work 16 hours a day.
While posting a video from the tribute concert, the minister also took to X to write: “Last nite I attended a very emotional tribute to Legend Abigail Khubeka. We as @SportArtsCultur will have another tribute tour for Mama Abigail starting in 4 weeks throughout SA & abroad, we owe this Queen everything. Thanks for the warm welcome.”
Meanwhile, iconic TV host Felicia Mabuza-Suttle also congratulated the 84-year-old “Let’s Stay Together” hitmaker at the gathering.
“Congratulations Abigail, you deserve it, my sister. A prophet is rarely recognised in their own background. I am so proud that we are ultimately recognising you,” she said.
"You have been there for South Africa since the 1950s, thanks for being my mentor in show business,” Mabuza-Suttle said.