Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read
05 January 2025 | 12:48 CAT

A video of alleged racist remarks by a white couple at Food Lover’s Market sparks concern. Image: Screenshot/ X

A disturbing incident at a Fourways store in Gauteng has ignited national outrage after a white couple allegedly referred to black patrons as “baboons.” The African Transformation Movement (ATM) has condemned the event, labelling it a blatant act of racism and calling for immediate action from the Human Rights Commission.

According to ATM National spokesperson Zama Ntshona, the altercation, captured in circulating videos, began with a disagreement between the couple and a group of black women. The footage shows the women visibly angry at the derogatory term used, with the white couple offering no denial. Instead, the woman was heard saying, “If you want to call me racist, then call me racist.”

Citing legal precedent, Ntshona emphasized the severity of such language, which South African courts have consistently ruled as hate speech. “In the Hasselman v. Geleba case, the court deemed the use of the word ‘baboon’ as hate speech under section 10 of the Equality Act,” Ntshona explained. Similar rulings in the Strayedom v. Chilwale and Mangope v. Asmau cases underscored the dehumanizing intent behind the term, likening it to subhuman or animalistic stereotyping.

The ATM questioned why such incidents persist 30 years into South Africa’s democracy, especially given existing legal frameworks. “The courts have ruled on this repeatedly. It shouldn’t be happening,” said Ntshona.

In response, the ATM has urged the Human Rights Commission to launch a full investigation and called on victims to file formal complaints. Ntshona noted that hate speech and racial slurs are criminal offences under South African law, with perpetrators facing imprisonment, fines, and other penalties.

“This is a clear violation of the Bill of Rights and the Equality Act,” Ntshona asserted. “We need the courts to act decisively to ensure justice.”

Listen to the full interview on Your World Today with Mufti Yusuf Moosagie and ATM National spokesperson Zama Ntshona here.