Zimbabwean hip-hop artist Holy Ten has once again become the centre of national discussion after revealing on Wednesday that he is heading to rehab to confront his struggle with alcohol.
Posting under his real name, Mukudzei Modecai Chitsama, on X, the announcement spread rapidly and divided public opinion.
In a lengthy message, Holy Ten acknowledged that alcohol had taken a toll on his life.
“Rehab is a very difficult decision, especially when you know you’re not using what they say you’re using. I always avoided it because that’s where I thought only junkies went. I used to think I could handle alcohol, but I’ve seen how it destroys health, families, talent, and lives. So I’ve made this bold choice to seek professional help,” he wrote.
He added that although he still considers himself a leader for young people, he realises he must lead by example.
“I still call myself the leader of the youth because I AM, but I need to remember the direction they must be led in. The right one. I’m not here to inspire a nation of alcoholics. To those praying for me, I promise to become a better man,” he said.
Holy Ten also issued apologies to the first family, his political allies, and the nation at large, expressing regret for the pain his actions have caused.
The announcement immediately triggered mixed reactions. Supporters praised his courage, while critics dismissed it as yet another empty promise.
Journalist Maynard Manyowa wrote, “Last month you wrote something similar about having grown up. Three days later you were cursing Fadzi. That was the 7th or 8th time.”
Others echoed scepticism. One user commented: “Scripted movie, seen it before.” Another dismissed it outright, saying: “We are all going through a lot, you’re not special. Tsek.”
Some criticised the very public nature of the confession. One user argued that he should explain himself only to those he wronged, not to the entire nation.
Alongside the criticism came messages of encouragement. Fans and fellow public figures such as DJ Ollah 7 and Begotten Sun wished him well. “Be well young bro. Get healthy,” one wrote. Another reassured him: “Don’t worry about the negativity. Focus on healing. You’ll bounce back and finish your story.”
Others sympathised with his situation, with one fan noting: “They are being rough on you. We stand with you in these tough times.”
Not all reactions were kind. Some took a harder stance, accusing him of seeking attention. One user shared his own history with substance abuse before attacking Holy Ten, writing: “I beat addiction without crying for sympathy. You’re just a loser looking for attention.” Another argued he didn’t need rehab at all but “a good hiding.”
Amid the online storm, some pointed to the bigger issue of drug and alcohol abuse among Zimbabwe’s youth. “Substance abuse and mental health are massive challenges facing young people in this country,” one user stressed. Others reminded critics of Holy Ten’s age, urging compassion: “He is only 26, you’re putting him under too much pressure.”
For now, Holy Ten’s decision has left Zimbabweans divided — with some seeing it as the beginning of a long-overdue turnaround, and others viewing it as yet another cycle of apology and controversy.
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