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IOL News
2 days ago
- Politics
- IOL News
Sizwe Dhlomo demands the removal of Minister Gayton McKenzie over resurfaced racist comments
TV and radio personality Sizwe Dhlomo has called for the firing of Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie after racist remarks resurfaced. Image: File Television and radio personality Sizwe Dhlomo has publicly called for the dismissal of Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, following the resurfacing of racist remarks. On Saturday, 9 August, ActionSA complained to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), accusing Minister McKenzie of making racist remarks dating back to the apartheid era.' The party has also indicated it may escalate the case to the Equality Court under Section 20 of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act if necessary. Alan Beesley, ActionSA's Member of Parliament, emphasised the importance of following the appropriate legal channels, stating: 'The SAHRC remains the constitutionally empowered institution mandated to address such matters. We will follow the prescribed process, but are prepared to independently institute proceedings at the Equality Court if required.' Herman Mashaba shared ActionSA's statement on X with the comment: 'This is deeply disturbing and concerning coming from someone who is a Minister in our democratic society. I hope and strongly advise @GaytonMcK to urgently apologise.' In response, Dhlomo quoted Mashaba's post, bluntly stating: 'No, he must just get fired. End of story.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad Loading No, he must just get fired. End of story. — Sizwe Dhlomo (@SizweDhlomo) August 9, 2025 The debate has sparked a range of reactions from Dhlomo's followers: @nfdmckenna wrote: 'Even if he gets fired, PA still has seats in Parliament more than two faces Herman, and whatever you say, he does not care.' @xactly_getwitit added: 'I hope this sets a new standard and introduces new laws that put all races on a level playing field. Black people do racist things every day. People should be charged for their racist tweets.' @DinahRadeb noted: 'This is shocking from a cabinet vetting perspective. Aren't these issues supposed to be uncovered before appointing him? So who does the vetting?' @TreasureGambu said: 'This is what he wanted for the young podcasters. The energy should be reciprocated.' @TreasureGambu's comment is especially relevant in light of McKenzie's recent actions. Just last week, the Minister urged his party, the Patriotic Alliance, to take legal action against the hosts of the 'Open Chats Podcast', who made disparaging and racist remarks about the coloured community - accusing families of intimate relationships and claiming that they suffer from mental health issues. McKenzie said, 'If coloured people had made similar remarks about other races, it would have made front-page news.'
IOL News
4 days ago
- Politics
- IOL News
ActionSA reports McKenzie to the South African Human Rights Commission over alleged racist remarks
ActionSA has reported Minister Gayton McKenzie to the South African Human Rights Commission, over alleged racist remarks that included apartheid slurs and other demeaning references aimed at black South Africans. This development follows the reappearance of the Minister's past social media posts, some dating back to 2013, in which the K-word was used to refer to black individuals. The party said it may also escalate the matter to the Equality Court under Section 20 of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act if necessary. In a statement issued on Saturday, ActionSA's member of parliament Alan Beesley, said the party has reservations about the effectiveness of the SAHRC.
IOL News
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- IOL News
Racism row, Minnie's R2. 5m lawsuit and DJ Zinhle's comeback: SA celebs made headlines this week
The hosts of 'Open Chat Podcasts' have found themselves in hot water over derogatory comments on the coloured community. Image: Facebook This week in the world of fame has been a whirlwind, marked by a racism uproar, chart-topping releases, and courtroom drama. Amidst it all, rising stars gained recognition, and there were a few heart-warming moments. 1. "Open Chats Podcast" hosts faced backlash over racist comments The racist comments made on the podcast have ignited widespread outrage. The remarks, which perpetuate harmful stereotypes and offensive generalisations about coloured people, sparked a backlash across social media and prompted a strong reaction from the likes of well-known comedian Marc Lottering, among others. "As someone who is mentally slow and who sleeps with his cousins, I've actually done rather well for myself. And nogal without hosting a podcast. Shem," posted Lottering. His sarcastic remark highlighted the absurdity of the stereotypes being perpetuated and the ignorance behind such comments. Meanwhile, singer Honeshma Margarido publicly apologised, saying: "During my guest appearance on 'Open Chats Podcast', I made an offensive and harmful generalisation by saying that the coloured men I dated were 'crazy mentally' and I deeply regret that statement.' Minnie Dlamini has taken legal action against MacG, seeking R2.5 million in damages for hate speech and harassment after he made offensive remarks about her. Image: Instagram 2. Minnie Dlamini takes MacG to court TV presenter and producer Minnie Dlamini has taken 'Podcast and Chill' hosts MacG and Sol Phenduka to the Equality Court, seeking R2.5 million in damages. The case relates to offensive remarks made by MacG about Dlamini's past relationship, which she alleges amounted to hate speech, gender-based harassment and unfair discrimination. The claim includes R1 million for damages to her dignity and R1.5 million to be donated to a women's organisation. According to court papers, Dlamini rejected MacG's apology, choosing instead to pursue legal accountability. "Big Brother Mzansi" season four star and musician Liyema Pantsi won two awards at the Basadi in Music Awards. Image: Instagram/liyema_pantsi 3. Women in music celebrated at Basadi in Music Awards The Basadi in Music Awards returned for its fourth year, honouring women making waves in the industry. The ceremony took place over two nights at the Joburg Theatre, recognising talent across various categories. Among the big winners were Nomuzi 'Moozlie' Mabena, who took home Best Styled Artist of the Year, 'Big Brother Mzansi' star Liyema Pantsi, who walked away with two awards, including Collaboration of the Year and Amapiano powerhouse Babalwa M, who won Amapiano Artist of the Year. Limpopo's Kharishma, who claimed Music Video of the Year, capped the event with a vibrant performance. For those who didn't attend the live event, the two-night award show is set to broadcast on SABC2 on August 9, at 6.30pm, starting with the green carpet, followed by the Vanguard Awards on Sunday, August 10, at 8.30pm. DJ Zinhle makes a triumphant return with the release of her highly anticipated album, "Zee Nation Volume 1", just in time for her upcoming Zee Nation Fest. Image: Instagram 4. DJ Zinhle ushers in a new era with "Zee Nation Volume 1" DJ Zinhle has released her long-awaited new album, 'Zee Nation Volume 1', just ahead of the second instalment of her Zee Nation Fest. The multi-award-winning DJ's last full album dropped in 2009, with her staying in the spotlight through hit singles and collaborations since then. The album cover, featuring a collage of her fans' pictures, is a heartfelt tribute to her loyal 'Besties'. With the music festival approaching, DJ Zinhle is focused on curating another standout experience for her community of supporters. South African artists Jazzworx and G.L. Ceejay were kidnapped during a home invasion. Image: X 5. Jazzworx & GL Ceejay rescued after kidnapping ordeal Jazzworx and GL Ceejay were victims of a kidnapping following a home invasion, during which studio equipment was also stolen. The artists, known for songs such as 'Bengicela' and 'Uzizwa Kanjan', have since expressed gratitude to law enforcement for their rescue. The duo released a joint statement thanking those involved and asked for privacy as they recover. Their collaborator, Thukuthela, shared the incident on social media, revealing that the suspects had targeted their studio assets specifically. Samthing Soweto says he might skip releasing visuals for his new album "Touch is a Move (Good Morning)" because he is "camera-shy." Image: Samthing Soweto Instagram 6. Samthing Soweto may skip the visuals for 'Touch is a Move (Good Morning)' Samthing Soweto surprised fans by revealing he may forgo music videos for his latest album, "Touch is a Move (Good Morning)", citing camera shyness. The singer shared the message on Instagram, sparking both support and calls for reconsideration from fans. The 17-track album, his first in five years, is a reflective and layered body of work exploring themes such as childhood, resilience and ritual. Inspired by the metaphor of childhood games, the album invites listeners to reflect on growth and commitment in everyday life. Jack Blues Bieber made his first ever cameo after appearing on a music video alongside his mom, Hailey and dad, Justin. Image: X 7. Jack Blues Bieber steals the show in "Yukon" Justin Bieber gave fans a rare look into his family life in the new black-and-white music video for 'Yukon', which features his 11-month-old son, Jack Blues. While the baby's face remains hidden per the couple's wishes, the glimpses of father-son bonding moments melted fans hearts. 'Yukon' is Bieber's third song on his surprise album 'SWAG', which he released in July. It delves into the themes of relationship troubles. Beyoncé has ignited excitement among fans with her latest Levi's campaign, hinting at the much-anticipated "Act III" of her album trilogy. Image: X 8. Is Beyoncé teasing Act III? The Beyhive thinks so Beyoncé has released a new campaign with Levi's titled 'Chapter 4: The Denim Cowboy', which has ignited fan speculation about the third act of her album trilogy. The visual shot features the singer in denim-heavy western looks before transitioning into a glam-rock aesthetic. The ad's visual storytelling, combined with the division into three parts, which are 'The Ice', 'The Heat' and 'The Smoke', has led many to believe it contains references to the three-part album project Beyoncé previously teased. Additionally, fans believe this is a teaser for a rock-infused final act following "Renaissance" and "Cowboy Carter". The Beyhive is watching closely. Sean "Diddy" Combs was convicted of prostitution-related offenses but cleared of sex trafficking and racketeering. Image: File. 9. Diddy remains behind bars after bail was denied Sean 'Diddy' Combs remains behind bars after a US judge rejected his R900 million bail application. The court ruled that Combs poses both a flight risk and a danger to the public. His sentencing is scheduled for October 3. The disgraced music mogul was found guilty on two counts of transporting individuals for prostitution and faces up to ten years in prison. Despite the letter written by former partner Virginia Huynh in support of Combs, the judge noted the severity of the charges and the risk of further harm if released. Tyla continues to make waves in the music industry with her nomination for Best Choreography at the 2025 MTV VMAs for her vibrant music video "Push 2 Start". Image: X
TimesLIVE
6 days ago
- Politics
- TimesLIVE
Political parties weigh in 'racist' remark on 'Open Chats Podcast'
The Open Chats Podcast has come under fire after making derogatory comments about the coloured community. After receiving backlash, they apologised for their remarks. Despite that, the Patriotic Alliance (PA), through its lawyers, has served the podcast hosts with a letter demanding a comprehensive, signed public apology and the removal of the podcast episode from all platforms. The party laid a complaint at the Brooklyn police station in Pretoria on Wednesday and vowed to file cases with the Equality Court and the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC). 'Such statements are grotesquely insulting, perpetuate apartheid-era stereotypes and have profoundly eroded the dignity of a historically marginalised community,' said PA attorney Eugene Botha.
IOL News
06-08-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Court orders Kenny Kunene to apologise to Julius Malema for hate speech
Kenny Kunene lost his appeal against the Equality Court judgment and must now finally apologise to Julius Malema for calling him a cockroach. Image: Boxer Ngwenya/Independent Newspapers Suspended deputy president of the Patriotic Alliance (PA), Kenny Kunene, is compelled to apologise to EFF leader Julius Malema after a Gauteng High Court ruling. The court rejected Kunene's appeal against a previous Equality Court decision, which deemed his derogatory remarks—referring to Malema as a "cockroach," "little frog," and "criminal"—as hate speech under the Equality Act. These utterances were made during an eNCA interview with Kunene. The aggrieved Malema subsequently turned to the Equality Court. The Equality Court at the time ordered Kunene to apologise for using these words to describe Malema and interdicted Kunene from doing so in the future. On appeal, it was argued that Kunene's remarks were personal attacks on Malema rather than targeting any group of which Malema is a member. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading Judge Stuart Wilson, who wrote the judgment on behalf of the full bench, in the opening of his appeal judgment, remarked that the central question in this appeal was whether one political leader who calls another political leader a 'cockroach' in the course of a televised discussion of the outcome of a local election commits an act of hate speech. 'We conclude that he does. This is because that conduct falls squarely within the textual definition of 'hate speech' outlined in section 10 of the Equality Act.' The judge added that political speech in South Africa must be prevented from degenerating into an act of mutual dehumanisation. Judge Wilson said the consequences of such dehumanisation are written largely across the pages of history. 'They reveal themselves in the pogroms and genocides that the use of the word 'cockroach' evokes... The Constitution and the Equality Act require us to enforce the modest limits on political discourse that are necessary to prevent it from doing so. 'It seems to me that Mr Kunene should be given the opportunity to bring himself back within the limits of lawful expression, and unequivocally to accept that there are some things that he is simply not permitted to utter because they undermine the political system in which he is himself an important participant,' Judge Wilson said. He interdicted Kunene from describing Malema as a 'cockroach' in the future. Kunene must issue a written and oral apology within a month. Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel. Cape Argus
