Online Reporter
Zimpapers Entertainment Editor
THE People’s Choice category at National Arts Merit Awards 2024 (NAMA24) has erupted into one of the most scandalous, emotional and polarising showdowns in recent memory.
And, at the centre of it all is TikTok sensation and skit comedian Ritz Mcleish.
Born Michelle Moyo, Ritz is the only woman standing in a brutal five-horse race dominated by entertainment heavyweights Jah Prayzah, Winky D, Prince Chigwida and comedy veteran Comic Elder.
Since the announcement, Zimbabwean social media timelines have turned into war zones.
Some fans insist Ritz does not belong in the same conversation as chart-topping musicians and long-established comedians.
Others say her nomination represents the voice of the people, exactly what the category stands for.
“When I first saw it, I thought it was a joke,” Ritz confessed.
“I didn’t believe it at all. Then I realised – people are watching, people are enjoying my content, and people are voting.”
The backlash has been brutal.
Critics have labelled her skits “cheap”, “attention-seeking” and even “moral decay”.
Some argue that People’s Choice should be reserved for stadium-filling artists, not social media creators.
Ritz, however, has refused to be silenced.
“Calling my skits moral decay is wrong,” she said firmly.
“I’m telling the African story in a different and unique way. That’s why I’m among the People’s Choice nominees – because the people relate to it.”
What has added fuel to the fire is how perfectly her nomination mirrors the NAMA24 theme: Fearless.
Ritz is not just nominated – she is challenging a male-dominated industry, standing alone as the only woman daring to compete with Zimbabwe’s entertainment giants.
“I’m not intimidated at all,” she said. “Being among the big boys of the industry actually makes me feel special. This is what fearless looks like.”
Supporters have rallied behind her in droves, arguing that People’s Choice is about impact, relevance and connection, not legacy alone.
Many have praised her for representing women, digital creators and single mothers who rarely see themselves acknowledged on such a powerful stage.
“At one point people were laughing at my situation,” Ritz said.
“They laughed at me being a single mother, at my struggles. But today here I am – nominated among the top artists in Zimbabwe.”
The controversy has only amplified her visibility, with fans flooding comment sections urging others to vote for her as a statement against gatekeeping in the arts.
“This isn’t just about Ritz,” one supporter posted. “It’s about recognising a new generation.”
Ritz herself admits she wants the trophy.
“Of course I’m hoping to win,” she said. “Not just for myself, but for women, for content creators, for anyone who’s been told they don’t belong.”
Beyond the skits, she insists her success is built on hard work and originality.
“Most of my skits are my ideas. I am the brain behind them,” she said, adding that content creation has become her livelihood.
“I’m earning a living through this, and I’m proud.”
Win or lose, one thing is undeniable.
Ritz Mcleish has already rewritten the script.
She has shaken the establishment, split public opinion and turned the NAMA24 People’s Choice category into the most talked-about battle of the year. Love her or loathe her, Ritz is fearless – and she’s not backing down.
