Press Statement
For Immediate Release
08 August 2025
AKF Calls for Accountability, Education and Dialogue After Offensive Podcast Remarks
The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation notes with concern the derogatory and demeaning remarks made about the Coloured community on the Open Chats Podcast. These comments, reducing an entire community to harmful stereotypes, have caused deep offence, anger, and disappointment, particularly among Coloured South Africans but also among South Africans of all races.
Such words erode the trust and understanding that are important to buildIing a united, non-racial society. They deepen old wounds and give life to new ones.
We commend those individuals, organisations, and community voices who have spoken out firmly against these remarks and called the presenters to order. We also welcome the willingness of the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) to investigate the matter in line with its mandate to protect human dignity and equality. Importantly, we note the podcast hosts’ acknowledgement of their wrongdoing and their stated commitment to further awareness and education on the issue. This willingness to engage and learn must now be matched with meaningful actions and failure to do this must be met with the requisite penalties.
While Section 16 of the South African Constitution protects the right to freedom of expression, it comes with limits, enormous responsibility and accountability, especially when one has a public platform. Speech that demeans and stereotypes communities undermines our constitutional values and, as such, cannot go without consequence. These consequences must apply not only to the presenters, but also to all involved in the production and dissemination of such content, and they must be in accordance with South Africa’s laws.
The precedent set by the rulings on the Mbogeni Ngema case as well as the recent one against Kenny Kunene are reflective of the continuity of such behaviour.
We therefore call for a response that goes beyond punishment. The harm caused presents an opportunity for education, and awareness-raising, particularly in closing the gaps in knowledge about our country’s racial history and the lived realities of its people. Public figures and entertainers must be especially mindful of the influence they wield, ensuring that their content uplifts rather than divides.
As Ahmed Kathrada often reminded us, our democracy depends on active, informed citizens who respect the dignity of all. He believed that racism must be challenged at every turn. He also argued that even the worst racists in South Africa can unlearn their prejudices. This moment must therefore be used to encourage constructive dialogue, to challenge prejudice, and to ensure that our youth grow up in a society that values diversity, equality, and mutual respect where information about the history of South Africa is within easy reach.
Issued by: The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation
For more information contact:
Anele Gcwabe
Communication Manager
Ahmed Kathrada Foundation
083 2788 832
anele@kathradafoundation.org
