Singer and producer Zwai Bala and his younger brother's relationship keeps getting more complicated. Zwai, the former TKZ member and musical director, has banned Phelo from using their surname, Bala, in his brand or business ventures. This comes after Phelo indicated he doesn't want to be part of the Bala family. The two don't have the same father.

AN OPEN LETTER 

In an open letter to Phelo, Zwai indicated that Phelo is attracting business opportunities because of the Bala surname brand. He wrote: "Dear Phelo, your business opportunities were and are highly due to the strength of the brand Bala, which you were afforded access to. Again, you will agree that this is way more than just a regular surname, as it has immense value carried mostly by its reputation. A lifelong investment went into this brand," the letter said. "To cut to the chase, I think it is only fair of me to allow you to surrender the use of brand Bala for commercial steps without taking legal steps." 

A BUSINESS DECISION

When called for a comment, Zwai said the decision he took was a business one because his younger brother doesn't respect the brand Bala. "I have built the name so that people like him can benefit from it. He has gone out of his way to destroy the name," he said. Zwai said he has worked hard to build the Bala brand and he won't let anyone destroy the name. "He is his person, and I respect that. I am not against him, but other people will benefit from the brand. He has been saying he wants out. He does not even use the Bala surname on his ID."

HE WILL CHANGE

He added that the Phelo will not change. "I am not perfect myself, but I keep it clean. Even with his drinking issues, nothing has changed; he is just rebellious. Phelo likes to pull the homophobic card to gain public sympathy. He told people that I am homophonic, which has hurt me. I am not going to explain myself. I have no reason. I grew up in the industry. I have great friends who are gay; I have a problem with his behaviour and the way he carries himself," he added. He told ZiMoja that even Loyiso has kept the brand clean. Why can't he do the same? This is a matter of keeping our legacy; he is getting things because of the Bala brand. This thing is simple: he wants out of the Bala, drop the name," he added. Phelo could not be reached for comment.