Paul Mashatile, the Deputy President of South Africa, has made significant contributions to the political landscape over the decades. However, his personal life, particularly his marriage to Humile Mjongile, has been relatively private. This article delves into the details of Paul Mashatile’s new wife, Humile Mjongile, and offers a glimpse into her life and background.
Paul Mashatile: A Brief Biography
Paul Shipokosa Mashatile was born on October 21, 1961, in Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa. At 62 years old, he continues to play a pivotal role in South African politics under the African National Congress (ANC). Known for his commitment and dedication, Paul Mashatile has also been recognized for his educational achievements, having studied at the University of London. Despite his public persona, Mashatile maintains a relatively private personal life, keeping his relationships away from the public eye.
Humile Mjongile: The New Wife
Humile Mjongile came into the limelight through her high-profile relationships with prominent politicians. Before her marriage to Paul Mashatile in 2023, she was married to Songezo Mjongile, the late former ANC provincial secretary. Their marriage in 2011 was notable, and it was cut short by Songezo’s untimely death from cancer in 2020. Humile’s connection to Paul Mashatile, a close friend of Songezo, eventually led to their marriage.
Life Before Paul Mashatile
Humile Mjongile’s name first rose to prominence when she married Songezo Mjongile. Their relationship was marked by her support and active involvement in his career until his passing. Following Songezo’s death, Humile continued to honor his legacy by launching the Songezo Mjongile Foundation, a cancer foundation established in his memory.
Humile also has a professional background as a personal assistant to Leonard Cheune, the Athletics South Africa (ASA) boss. During this period, rumors of a potential secret romance between her and Leonard surfaced, although these allegations remain unconfirmed.
Humile Mjongile’s Personal Life and Family
Despite being in the public eye, Humile Mjongile prefers to keep her personal life private. She reportedly has two children, Zondwa Songezo Jr. and Goapele Zenani Mjongile, from her previous marriage. Her family life also includes a brother named Tebogo, who played a significant role during her first marriage by walking her down the aisle.
Humile’s age remains unconfirmed by any authoritative sources, though some social media accounts have speculated about her being in her late thirties, indicating a substantial age gap between her and Paul Mashatile.
Paul Mashatile’s Previous Marriage
Before marrying Humile, Paul Mashatile was married to Manzi Ellen Mashatile. The details of their relationship and marriage remain largely unknown. Manzi Ellen Mashatile passed away in 2020 after a lengthy illness, a week after the death of Paul’s mother. Her funeral, held on July 9, 2020, was a public event, allowing many to offer their condolences to Paul Mashatile during this difficult period.
Controversies Surrounding Paul Mashatile
Despite his reclusive approach to relationships, Paul Mashatile has not been free from controversy. In April 2024, News24 reported allegations from Gugu Nkosi, who claimed to have had an eight-year affair with Mashatile. Gugu stated that Paul had promised to marry her after the ANC’s 55th National Conference in December 2022 but instead married Humile. These revelations have stirred public interest and added a layer of complexity to Mashatile’s personal life narrative.
Humile Mjongile’s Career and Public Image
Humile Mjongile’s career has seen her involved in various capacities, most notably as a personal assistant. However, her public image has been shaped significantly by her marriages to high-profile politicians. Her involvement in charitable activities, particularly through the Songezo Mjongile Foundation, highlights her dedication to social causes, especially cancer awareness and support.
Social Media Presence
Paul Mashatile maintains a presence on social media, with an Instagram account under the handle @paulmashatile and an X (Twitter) page with a substantial following. As of May 21, 2024, he has 2,220 followers on Instagram and 26,000 followers on X. In contrast, Humile Mjongile’s social media presence is minimal, with her Instagram account currently under investigation and no other known social media accounts.
Conclusion
Paul Mashatile and Humile Mjongile’s relationship has captured public attention due to their high-profile status and the controversies surrounding them. Despite the public curiosity, both have managed to keep significant parts of their personal lives private. Humile’s background, marked by her previous marriage and her involvement in charitable work, adds depth to her public persona. As South Africa’s Deputy President, Paul Mashatile continues to navigate the complexities of political life, with Humile Mjongile by his side, contributing to their shared journey.
