Melinda Ferguson talks about the very real fear of being killed in her book When Love Kills: The Tragic Tale of AKA and Anele Tenbe. The award-winning author and journalist appeared on her Podcast & Chill to give us a cup of tea behind her latest literary work…
According to the bestseller, she received numerous death threats after the memoir was published.
The book, now officially in bookstores across South Africa, chronicles the couple's rollercoaster romance and their untimely deaths.
Melinda has been criticized on social media over the “timing” of her release amid Anele's inquest and the murder trial of her alias Keenan Faube.
Melinda Ferguson: “I hope I don't die''
Speaking to Sol Feduka, Melinda Ferguson was a guest on the Podcast & Chill on Thursday, April 25th.
Referring to the backlash she received from the public, she said: “A lot of people have asked me…'Aren't you afraid of dying?' I hope I don't die because of this story. I don't want to die.”
“It seems like there are a lot of people who think this story is going to kill them.
“A lot of my black friends say that no black person was going to write this book…I did.”
On being accused of offending South Africans due to the sensitive nature of the book, Melinda said:had to write about it [death]”.
through her eyes
During the episode, Melinda Ferguson shared her perspective on AKA and Anele Tembe's doomed romance.
She…
- I couldn't believe that Anele committed suicide by jumping off the Pepper Club Hotel.
- But she thought Mr Anele's suicide attempt at the Hilton Hotel in Durban was a “stunt”.
- A “terrible mistake” was made that things got “out of control” before Anele died.
- AKA and Anele are believed to have been on drugs during their relationship and the night before her death.
- AKA found it 'strange' that he didn't rush to meet his partner as he lay dying on the pavement.
- Anele and AKA had a “toxic” relationship that involved physical violence from both parties
“SA's most hated woman”
talk to EWN Last week, Melinda Ferguson dubbed herself “South Africa's most hated woman” amid public backlash.
Melinda revealed in a Facebook post over the weekend that she had been legally advised to sue those who threatened her.
She posted: “Honestly, I don’t have the time or energy right now. But our laws are strict and clear when it comes to cyber-attacks…
“Ironically, this very toxic 'ninja keyboard' mentality is deeply challenged in my new book. If I dare to say it, when love kills Social media's involvement in AKA and Anele's deaths. I'm very interested to see how it plays out on this timeline.
Melinda Ferguson has hinted that a “plan” is afoot after being dragged out on social media.
She posted this: “To understand what's going on. Discrediting me serves the vested interests of some people. I understand why people are angry, but I don't want to stand firm against the truth. I am taking it.”