'Big Brother Mzansi' Week 5 recap: Shocking evictions and rising tensions

Bazozwa house delivered one of the most dramatic stretches of the season so far, blending power shifts, romance, rising tensions and disciplinary action that reshaped the game overnight.

The week began with Mmeli claiming victory in the Head of House challenge. Rather than celebrating the title, he viewed the position as a layer of security in an increasingly unpredictable game. During his reign, he praised the creativity and energy inside the house and reflected on how his connection with his Cuff It partner, Thandeka, had grown stronger. What started as a cautious alliance evolved into a close strategic partnership, marked by private jokes, shared responsibilities and visible support as they navigated HoH duties together.

But the calm did not last.

During live nominations, Biggie introduced a nomination wheel that dramatically altered the week’s trajectory. When Mmeli spun it, all housemates were suddenly placed at risk of eviction. Each was given two minutes to reflect on their journey, producing emotional confessions, tactical positioning and visible anxiety as the reality of the twist sank in.

Love Week added a softer but emotionally charged layer to the house dynamic. Diary sessions centred on Biggie’s Cuff It pairings, lingering feelings from recent evictions and shifting alliances. Dube admitted he was struggling following the departure of Kokii and Mshefane. While proud to have made the top 15, he set his sights on reaching the top 10. Although he was hesitant to form another deep bond, he admitted he had grown comfortable with Didi as his Cuff It partner. Despite her outspoken personality, their pairing proved effective, and Dube balanced nervousness with confidence as nominations loomed.

Midweek tensions flared during wager preparations when Thandeka and Ilano clashed, prompting Mmeli to step in and call for a pause. Thandeka, still recovering from a fall and a recent strike, acknowledged the support she had received from fellow housemates. She also made it clear that she separates her personal relationship with Mmeli from his responsibilities as Head of House, commending his diplomatic leadership.

Thursday’s straight-win wager victory should have been celebratory, but instead it sparked conflict over alcohol distribution. Neliswa confronted Dube over claims that Mmeli and Thandeka had taken drinks despite an agreement that alcohol would be shared equally. Didi argued that the dispute was about principle rather than quantity. Outside, Ilano questioned The Don about handing alcohol to Mmeli, who maintained he had not realised some drinks had already been taken. Tensions escalated when Thandeka took drinks upstairs, with raised voices and heated exchanges between Mmeli and Didi, who both referenced issues of age and respect.

The Saturday night party, typically a highlight of the week, descended into one of the most dramatic nights yet. Neliswa and Trixie ended the evening in tears, with much of the unrest linked, directly or indirectly, to Que.

Sunday night delivered back-to-back shocks.

Dube became the latest housemate to be evicted last night. However, the drama did not end there. Shortly after his exit, Neliswa was disqualified from the game following a bedroom altercation in which she physically attacked Que. Her removal was carried out under Article 16 of the rule book, which governs serious misconduct.

Drama unfolded after housemates returned from their weekly party, with several arguments breaking out in different group settings. One of the most explosive confrontations involved Que, Neliswa and Didi. 

During the heated exchange, Que verbally attacked Didi, calling her a derogatory term and saying “no wonder you were abused,” referencing her history of abuse. His remarks sparked immediate backlash from several housemates, who did not condone his behaviour.

In defence of Didi, Neliswa resorted to physical violence. During the argument, Didi charged at Que in an attempt to kick him but was quickly pulled back by Ashay. Neliswa then followed and punched Que while he was in bed covering himself with a blanket. She was later restrained by fellow housemates after attempting to approach him again, this time holding a wig stand.

Physical violence is strictly prohibited in the Big Brother house. In line with Article 16 of the rule book, Neliswa was disqualified from the competition.

Didi received a double strike for provocation and now faces possible removal should she commit another infringement. Que was issued a single strike for inflammatory comments made during the altercation.

amahle.luke@africannewsagency.com

Saturday Star