MEDIA STATEMENT ISSUED BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION REGARDING CLAIMS BY THE AFRIKANERBOND THAT IT WAS SACRIFICING HUMAN RIGHTS FOR POLITICAL BIGWIGS.

Date: Monday, 23 May 2011

The South African Human Rights Commission rejects as incorrect assertions by the Afrikanerbond that it was sacrificing human rights for political bigwigs.

In a statement the organisation claimed that the Commission postponed its proceedings against the ANC Youth League President Mr Julius Malema because it was willing to be politically expedient and to sacrifice human rights when it suits high profile political individuals.

Last year the Afrikanerbond lodged a complaint with the Commission against Mr Malema for his singing of the struggle song “Dubhul’ ibhunu.”

However, while the Commission was busy with its proceedings in this matter a similar complaint was lodged with the Johannesburg Equality Court.

As a result of this, the Commission decided to postpone its proceedings. By postponing the finalisation of its proceedings the Commission wanted to ensure that the due process of law prevails without any influence.

The Commission’s action is borne out of recognition of the fact that the complainants in the matter that is currently before the Equality Court have exercised their right which is protected by section 34 of the Constitution.

Amongst others this section provides that everyone has the right to have any dispute that can be resolved by the application of law decided in fair public hearing before a court.

The Commission assures all interested parties in this matter that it will resume its proceedings against Mr Malema as soon the Equality Court proceedings against him are complete and judgment is handed down.

Ends

Mr Vincent Moaga, Spokesperson, 073 562 9866/011 877 3636