In a sudden reversal that has sent shockwaves through the local political landscape, legendary hip-hop pioneer and radio personality DJ Ready D, born Deon Daniels, has announced his immediate withdrawal from politics. The high-profile decision comes just over a week after he officially entered the fray, sparking significant public interest and debate.
In a formal statement released to TshisaLIVE on Friday, the veteran entertainer confirmed he has stepped down as a candidate for both mayoral and ward councillor positions. Furthermore, he has officially resigned from the People’s Movement for Change (PMC).
The abrupt exit marks a decisive return to his roots. According to the statement, Daniels concluded that his true calling—and his most effective platform for driving change—lies within the spheres of music, youth development, and cultural advocacy. “After careful consideration, Deon has chosen to focus his time and energy on the areas that have defined his work for decades: music, culture, the creative industries, youth development, education and community engagement,” the statement read. “He remains committed to bringing people together and creating meaningful opportunities and has decided to continue making that contribution outside party politics.”
The logistical reality of the timing means that Daniels’ name may still appear on the ballot papers at upcoming polling stations. However, the statement was clear: any such appearance should not be interpreted as an ongoing campaign or a shift in his firm decision to exit the political arena.
The news brings immediate clarity to his professional future, particularly concerning his role at KFM. Daniels had previously paused his radio career to dedicate himself fully to his campaign; his departure from politics is widely expected to signal a swift return to the airwaves. His management team moved to reassure partners and clients that all professional commitments and collaborations would be honored with the same standard of excellence that has defined his decades-long career.
The timing of this announcement precedes a significant personal and professional milestone for the artist. This Saturday, Cape Town will host the “WOMAD X POC: A Historic Reunion,” where his iconic hip-hop group, Prophets of Da City (POC), is set to be honored. During the event, the Black Entrepreneurs Alliance (BEA) will present Daniels with the BEA Humanitarian Award, a recognition he says he is deeply humbled to receive.
“The group’s mission has always been to bring truth to power, and this recognition validates the path we walked,” Daniels said of the impending award.
As Ready D prepares to step back into the spotlight of the music scene, his fans and the broader creative community have expressed relief, welcoming the return of a cultural icon to the stage rather than the ballot box. While his political chapter has closed as quickly as it opened, his influence as an activist and entertainer remains undiminished.
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