The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation strongly condemns the racist, xenophobic, tribalistic and misogynistic remarks aired on the Bhinca Nation podcast by host Ngizwe Mchunu and fellow co-hosts. This is dangerous, hate-driven rhetoric that places communities at risk and undermines South Africa’s constitutional values.
Hate speech is not opinion. It is harm, and it must have consequences.
We are especially alarmed by the use of the term “mkla”, a widely recognised slur targeting Indian South Africans. We reference it only to condemn it. Dehumanising language has no place in a democracy founded on equality, dignity and non-racialism.
South Africa has seen, time and again, how racism and scapegoating can escalate into intimidation and violence. No community should be singled out or collectively blamed for the country’s social and economic hardships. We reject racial hostility and ethnic scapegoating in all forms.
Freedom of expression does not protect the advocacy of hatred or the incitement of harm. Digital platforms and content producers must stop disguising prejudice as “humour”, “commentary” or “political expression.”
We note with concern that individuals linked to these remarks have previously faced complaints before the South African Human Rights Commission. Repeat conduct of this nature requires a firmer and more urgent response. Accountability must be meaningful, consistent and visible.
We therefore call on the South African Human Rights Commission and other relevant institutions to act decisively in matters involving repeat offenders, including by:
- Issuing stronger remedial action and, where appropriate, sanctions for repeated breaches;
- Referring appropriate cases to the Equality Courts for enforcement;
- Putting in place clear monitoring and follow-up measures after prior interventions;
- Engaging podcast hosts, content creators, media practitioners and platforms on their ethical and legal responsibilities;
- Publicly reaffirming that discriminatory speech and conduct are fundamentally incompatible with South Africa’s constitutional democracy.
South Africa’s social and economic crises will not be resolved through scapegoating or racialised blame. Legitimate grievances relating to exploitation, inequality or abusive workplace practices must be addressed through evidence, lawful processes and constructive engagement, not through hate speech or collective accusations directed at entire communities.
Blanket accusations against racial or ethnic groups deepen prejudice, inflame tensions and increase the risk of violence. South Africa needs leadership that lowers the temperature, not content designed to provoke outrage and division.
The Foundation further calls for stronger and better-resourced social cohesion initiatives that bring together communities, workers, civil society organisations and young people to confront prejudice, address grievances and promote constructive dialogue.
We also caution against the growing normalisation of inflammatory and racialised rhetoric online. In a society facing deep inequality, unemployment and social strain, reckless digital content can rapidly translate into real-world harm.
South Africa cannot allow racism, xenophobia, tribalism and misogyny to be repackaged as entertainment. Public discourse must remain anchored in dignity, truth, accountability and non-racialism.
The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation will continue to advance non-racialism, equality and social justice, and to support efforts aimed at combating hate speech in all its forms. We urge leaders, institutions, platforms and members of the public to act responsibly, reject divisive rhetoric and protect the dignity and safety of all who live in South Africa.
ENDS
About the Ahmed Kathrada Foundation:
The Foundation aims to deepen non-racialism and promote the values of the South African Constitution. It continues the legacy of anti-apartheid activist Ahmed Kathrada by advocating for ethical leadership and social justice.
Media Enquiries:
Anele Gcwabe
Communications Manager
083 278 8832
anele@kathradafoundation.org
