Johannesburg - The Open Chats Podcast is under fire after an episode containing deeply offensive and racially charged content went viral. The Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Patriotic Alliance (PA) have both taken strong action against the podcast hosts following their remarks about the Coloured community.
DA Reports Podcast to Human Rights Commission
The DA has reported the Open Chats Podcast to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC). They condemned the podcast's content as “deeply offensive and race-baiting,” highlighting the “despicable stereotyping of coloured people,” including abhorrent discussions questioning their sexual practices and describing them as “crazy.” The DA insists this isn't humour, but an assault on dignity, undermining constitutional values.
“Such content fans the flames of division and undermines the constitutional values of equality, human dignity, and social cohesion,” stated the DA. While acknowledging the podcasters' apology, the DA maintains that it “does not erase the harm caused nor absolve the perpetrators from accountability.”
Patriotic Alliance Lays Criminal Complaint
Not stopping there, the Patriotic Alliance (PA) has laid a criminal complaint against the Open Chats podcasters for insulting the Coloured community. PA leader Gayton McKenzie announced further actions, including a protest against the SABC for streaming the offensive episode. The PA plans to lodge a case in the Equality Court and submit a separate complaint to the SAHRC.
McKenzie emphasized the need for the Coloured community to stand up against stereotyping and racial discrimination. The PA's legal letter to the podcasters asserts that their comments constitute hate speech. “It’s become too easy to insult coloured people in this country,” McKenzie stated. Former MP Liam Jacobs filed a complaint of crimen injuria at the Brooklyn Police Station.
Podcast Episode Removed, Apology Issued
The offensive discussion has since been removed from the episode. The podcasters issued an apology, stating they never intended to cause harm or promote racism and discrimination. However, the DA and PA remain committed to holding them accountable for their words.
This incident highlights the ongoing struggle against racial prejudice and the importance of responsible content creation. South Africa's constitutional democracy values dignity, respect, non-racialism, freedom, and democracy. The DA and PA are determined to defend the rights of all groups in society.