SAHRC Investigation Underway
Reporter – George April
Cape Town:- Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, is facing formal complaints lodged with the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) by ActionSA and other organisations.
The complaints relate to an old social media post from 2013 in which McKenzie used the k-word, a racial slur against black South Africans, as well as a recent departmental job advert that reportedly excluded black South Africans from applying.
ActionSA has called the 2013 remark “deeply offensive and degrading” and says it violates the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act. The EFF, GIWUSA (General Industries Workers Union of South Africa), and Lawyers for Human Rights have also criticised the job advert, calling it unconstitutional and discriminatory.
McKenzie has responded by apologising for the old post, describing himself at the time as a “troll” and saying the comment was made without thought. He denies being racist and says his goal in the job advert was to promote diversity and inclusion. He has expressed willingness to cooperate with any investigation.
The SAHRC has confirmed receipt of the complaints and is assessing the matter. Legal experts note that the case could potentially be referred to the Equality Court depending on the Commission’s findings.
The investigation is ongoing, and no legal ruling or final decision has yet been made. Updates will be provided as soon as further verified information becomes available.
