SAHRC orders Ngizwe Mchunu to apologise over anti-LGBTI hate speech
Human Rights Commission cracks down on Ngizwe Mchunu's LGBTI+ hate speech.
Image: ITUMELENG ENGLISH Independent Newspapers
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has found that homophobic public statements made by media personality Ngizwe Mchunu amount to prima facie violations of South Africa's equality and anti-discrimination laws.
In a statement released on Thursday, the Commission confirmed it had finalised its assessment of multiple complaints of alleged harassment and hate speech by Mchunu.
The watchdog said, “Utterances made by Mchunu are prima facie violations of the provisions of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act (Equality Act), 2000," said the watchdog.
As a result, the SAHRC has issued a formal demand instructing Mchunu to take immediate corrective action.
"Mchunu must immediately cease from publishing, distributing, or promoting any further content that incites violence, constitutes hate speech, or amounts to discrimination against LGBTI+ persons on any platform."
He was given 24 hours to remove the offending material from all social media platforms and issue a public apology.
"He must issue a public retraction and apology, acknowledging the harm caused and committing to refrain from such conduct in future, within 24 hours of receipt of the letter," added the SAHRC.
The Commission warned that further legal steps could follow should Mchunu fail to comply.
"Thereafter, the Commission will determine the best way forward which may include instituting proceedings in the relevant Equality Court as per section 13(3)(b) of the South African Human Rights Commission Act 40 of 2013, read with section 20 of the Equality Act, 2000."
Amid the controversy, Mchunu's comments were widely condemned, particularly for targeting entertainer Somizi Mhlongo. Responding publicly, Mhlongo urged calm and dignity.
"Don't allow them to make you emotional. You know who you are, and if you know yourself, you're not easily shaken."
He also cautioned against retaliation. Don't stoop to their level. Don't swear at them. All you need to do is just be yourself."
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