Paternity row erupts between Big Brother Mzansi contestants Sweet Guluva and Ashley Ogle

A public dispute has erupted between former Big Brother Mzansi housemates Sweet Guluva, born Akhonamathemba Zwane, and Ashley Ogle over allegations of paternity regarding Ogle’s newborn son. The controversy, which stirred a pot of emotions and opinions across social media, has quickly developed from a personal matter into a public spectacle, complete with accusations and denials from both parties.

It all began when rumours began circulating on social media suggesting that Sweet Guluva had been absent from his role as a father following the birth of Ogle's son. In response, the artist’s team released a public statement addressed to “Fellow South Africans,” revealing that they had intentionally chosen to remain silent until this point. “Sweet Guluva and his entire team intentionally refrained from commenting on the matter until now,” the statement read, underscoring that the relationship between the two reality stars was “a thing of the past.”

Highlighting his desire to be a part of the child's life, Zwane's team detailed a series of requests made by him since the beginning of 2025 to meet the child and allow his family to visit Ogle’s family in line with Zulu cultural practices. However, they claimed that Ogle had refused such requests, stating, “He has neither met nor seen this child in person.” In addition, they referenced a viral video in which Ogle cryptically dropped the name “Jwaang”, a Sesotho term previously used by Zwane to suggest that fans had interpreted her comments as confirmation of his paternity. Yet, they reiterated that until a meeting occurs and a paternity test is conducted, claims of parentage remain unverified.

In the face of mounting speculation, Zwane's representatives stressed that the matter has now been escalated to legal counsel, insisting that they have acted not to defame Ogle but to challenge the pubic narrative that they claim lacks verified facts. “As the unfounded public narrative continues to develop without verified facts… we have instructed our legal representatives to intervene,” they stated, indicating a shift towards a more formal legal dispute.

Ogle, however, has fiercely contested Zwane’s assertions in her own statement, vehemently asserting that no attempts were made during her pregnancy to establish contact. According to her, the last communication occurred only after the birth of her son, questioning the motivations behind Zwane’s interest in being registered on the birth certificate. “The only thing that he wanted to know was if he was registered on the birth certificate,” she stated, adding that she declined a request for a meeting in a public space, as it made her uncomfortable.

Addressing claims invoking Zulu cultural standards, Ogle complained of disrespect towards her parents during her pregnancy, asserting that she endured severe public scrutiny and harassment. “I have gone to hell and back throughout my pregnancy,” she lamented, recounting the bullying and humiliation she faced online, describing “defamatory remarks” aimed at her situation.

In a decisive conclusion to her statement, Ogle said, “Since he is now SUDDENLY UNSURE of the paternity of my son, I have nothing further to discuss with him.”

As the statements circulated, X users quickly reacted, reflecting how sharply divided public opinion has become. One user, @sleendeel, wrote, “This sweet Guluva and Ashley’s story is very messy marn. It’s unfortunate that an innocent child is involved in the mess.” Another, @officialsommy41, took aim at the wording of Zwane’s statement, quoting the phrase “Ms Ogle who claimed to have been impregnated by Sweet Guluva” and adding, “Ashley keep the baby away from him forever!!!!” Meanwhile, @mizzvibes2 commented, “This Ashley and Sweet Guluva things is messed. At the end of the day it should be about the baby and not …” echoing a broader sentiment that the focus should remain on the child’s wellbeing rather than the public fallout.

[email protected]

Saturday Star