Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za
3-minute read | 18 August 2025 | 14:45 CAT

📸 SAHRC investigates Minister Gayton McKenzie over resurfaced racist remarks, probe follows public outrage and multiple complaints. (Image – News24)

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has confirmed that it is investigating allegations of racism against Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie. This follows resurfaced social media posts dating back between 2011 and 2017, in which McKenzie allegedly used derogatory language toward black South Africans.

Initially, McKenzie dismissed the allegations as a political campaign orchestrated by the EFF and social media influencers. However, he has since issued an apology. Despite this, the SAHRC has stressed that apologies alone may not be sufficient.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, Human Rights Commissioner Tshepo Madlingozi explained that the complaints were not limited to one political party. “It was a number of political parties, NGOs and individuals who lodged complaints,” he said. After reviewing the posts, the Commission found a prima facie violation of human rights law.

Madlingozi clarified that the SAHRC, established under section 181 of the Constitution, is mandated to handle such complaints without the need for legal representation. “The public has the right to approach the Human Rights Commission. They can even send us a WhatsApp message, and we’ll take them through the process,” he explained.

Importantly, the Commissioner stressed that racist offenses under the Equality Act do not prescribe with time. “As long as posts remain online or resurface, the offense continues. People continue to be offended, so there’s no time limit,” he stated.

The Commission has outlined specific steps for McKenzie to take, including the removal of all offending posts under his control, issuing a public apology, providing a written undertaking not to repeat such conduct, undergoing diversity and sensitivity training, and paying damages.

On the question of whether an apology and deletion of posts absolve responsibility, Madlingozi pointed to precedent. “We had a similar case with former MP Ronaldo Holtz. Deleting posts was not enough; the apology needed to be unconditional and meaningful, preferably issued in the same space where the offense was made,” he explained.

The SAHRC emphasises that its approach is restorative rather than punitive. “Our mandate is not to punish but to encourage a culture of human rights. Sensitivity training is part of that process,” Madlingozi said.

The Commission’s investigation into Minister McKenzie is ongoing, and he is expected to comply with the measures outlined.

Listen to the full interview on Sabahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat and Human Rights Commissioner Tshepo Madlingozi.