A viral video has sparked heated debate online after it appeared to show Operation Dudula president Zandile Dabula admitting to having Zimbabwean roots.
In the short clip, which many users suspect is AI-generated, Dabula seems to say:
“Yes, my parents are from Zimbabwe, but I was born in South Africa and that makes me a South African.”
Zandila Dabula’s rapid spread on social media
The video spread quickly on X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, with thousands of users questioning whether it was real.
Some accused Dabula’s opponents of launching a smear campaign to discredit her, while others insisted the clip revealed the truth.
Dabula Yet to Respond
Dabula, who leads Operation Dudula, a movement known for its hardline stance against undocumented migrants, especially Zimbabweans.
She has not commented on the footage.
Critics argue the video shows signs of deepfake and AI voice technology, tools that are becoming increasingly difficult to detect.
Warn of misinformation risk
Some X users have urged the public to be cautious.
They warn that AI-generated misinformation can distort perceptions and intensify political divisions. “We’re entering an era where seeing is no longer believing,” one media researcher explained.
“If left unchecked, such content can fuel confusion and deepen social tensions.”
So far, no evidence proves the video’s authenticity or that Dabula actually made the statement.
Operation Dudula supporters have dismissed it as a deliberate attempt to undermine their leader.
