DA to refer ANC MPs hate speech to ethics committee

“The DA is deeply disturbed and disgusted by ANC MP Bongani Mkongi’s calls for the ‘Zuma Must Fall’ billboard in Cape Town, as well as the building it is on and its occupants, to be burnt down,” DA chief whip John Steenhuisen said on Saturday.

“I will write to the joint committee on ethics and members’ interests and request that it investigates Mkongi’s remarks and conduct as a matter of urgency,” he said.

Mkongi’s remarks not only violated South Africa’s constitutional and reconciliatory principles, but were also tantamount to hate speech and incitement to violence, and required thorough investigation.

“During this time of heated public debate, South Africans, particularly its Members of Parliament who are expected to lead national discourse, need to engage one another in a manner that leads to solutions not exacerbating incitement of violence, such as arson.

“The DA remains committed to our nation’s democratic principles and the eradication of racism, and will do everything in our power to ensure transgressors and hatemongers are held to account,” Steenhuisen said.

The City of Cape Town has said the billboard is illegal and does not comply with the city’s outdoor advertising and signage by-law. It has also been erected in contravention of the National Building Regulations and Standards Act, and the city also did not receive an application for the billboard. Therefore, the matter has been handed over for prosecution. – 

ANA

(File photo)