SAHRC to probe 'racist' content on Open Chats Podcast
The South African Human Rights Commission has launched an investigation into racist comments the hosts of the Open Chats Podcast made about Coloured people.
The podcast hosts, Mthokozisi Methula and Busisiwe Radebe, made disparaging comments about the Coloured community in an episode posted on their social media.
While the duo have apologised, many have rejected it as insincere.
The Patriotic Alliance has laid criminal charges, while the Democratic Alliance has referred the matter to the South African Human Rights Commission.
The podcast hosts also said they would "self-report" to the SAHRC.
SAHRC spokesperson Wisani Baloyi said they received numerous complaints from political parties and other communities.
"The commission can confirm that it has sent allegation letters to the respondents. Subsequently, the commission will determine the best way forward, including instituting proceedings in the relevant Equality Court," said Baloyi.
He warned that the right to freedom of expression is not absolute, saying hate speech is prohibited by the Equality Act and the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Act.
"Podcasts are not exempt from these limitations. Podcast owners, hosts, and guests are subject to the Constitution and all applicable laws," he added.
ALSO READ:
