The Commission confirms that it has, on its own accord, opened an investigation into the matter in accordance with its constitutional and legislative mandate. At this preliminary stage, the investigation will include, amongst other things, verification of the authenticity of the material and consideration of the matter in line with the Commission’s complaints-handling procedures and applicable equality jurisprudence.

The SAHRC reiterates that the k-word remains one of the most painful and degrading racial slurs in South Africa’s history. South African courts, including the Constitutional Court, have repeatedly recognised the severe harm this language inflicts on dignity, equality and social cohesion within our constitutional democracy.

The Commission condemns racism and any conduct or language which undermines the constitutional values of human dignity, equality and non-racialism.
As the matter is now subject to a formal process, the Commission will refrain from further substantive comment at this stage.

ENDS

ISSUED BY THE SOUTH AFRICAN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION