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Viral clip claims Zandile Dabula has Zimbabwean roots
2 hrs ago |
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A viral video circulating on social media has ignited widespread debate after appearing to show Operation Dudula president Zandile Dabula admitting that her parents are from Zimbabwe.
In the short clip, Dabula seems to say, "Yes, my parents are from Zimbabwe, but I was born in South Africa and that makes me a South African." The footage quickly spread across X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, prompting thousands of users to question its authenticity.
While some social media users claimed the clip exposes the truth about Dabula's background, others accused her opponents of fabricating the video in a coordinated smear campaign. Dabula, who heads Operation Dudula - a movement known for its tough stance on undocumented migrants, particularly Zimbabweans - has not yet commented on the matter.
Media analysts and fact-checkers have suggested that the video could be a deepfake generated using artificial intelligence (AI) technology, noting tell-tale inconsistencies in voice tone and lip movement. Deepfake and AI voice manipulation tools have become increasingly sophisticated, raising concerns about misinformation and reputational attacks.
Some users on X have urged caution, warning that digital misinformation could distort public perception and inflame existing social and political tensions.
"We're entering an era where seeing is no longer believing," one media researcher said. "If left unchecked, such content can fuel confusion and deepen social divisions."
As of now, no verified evidence confirms whether the video is genuine or AI-generated. Operation Dudula supporters have dismissed it as a calculated attempt to undermine Dabula's leadership and credibility.
In the short clip, Dabula seems to say, "Yes, my parents are from Zimbabwe, but I was born in South Africa and that makes me a South African." The footage quickly spread across X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, prompting thousands of users to question its authenticity.
Is this AI generated? pic.twitter.com/acdpzsRxyn
— Bulawayo24 News (@Bulawayo24News) October 8, 2025
While some social media users claimed the clip exposes the truth about Dabula's background, others accused her opponents of fabricating the video in a coordinated smear campaign. Dabula, who heads Operation Dudula - a movement known for its tough stance on undocumented migrants, particularly Zimbabweans - has not yet commented on the matter.
Media analysts and fact-checkers have suggested that the video could be a deepfake generated using artificial intelligence (AI) technology, noting tell-tale inconsistencies in voice tone and lip movement. Deepfake and AI voice manipulation tools have become increasingly sophisticated, raising concerns about misinformation and reputational attacks.
Some users on X have urged caution, warning that digital misinformation could distort public perception and inflame existing social and political tensions.
"We're entering an era where seeing is no longer believing," one media researcher said. "If left unchecked, such content can fuel confusion and deepen social divisions."
As of now, no verified evidence confirms whether the video is genuine or AI-generated. Operation Dudula supporters have dismissed it as a calculated attempt to undermine Dabula's leadership and credibility.
Source - businessdaily.co.zw
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