What began as a routine day of duty for a senior police officer in KwaZulu-Natal has evolved into a national conversation about language, identity and the line between diversity and division.

The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) has rallied behind South African Solice Service (SAPS) spokesperson Colonel Robert Netshiunda.

This follows reports that he was subjected to derogatory and tribalistic remarks outside the Point Police Station in Durban.

The incident, captured on video and widely circulated, has triggered debate and concern about the normalisation of discriminatory language.

“The Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (POPCRU) in KwaZulu-Natal strongly condemns any form of tribalism, xenophobia, discrimination, or offensive conduct directed at members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) or any individual in our society, ” the union said.

Netshiunda was born and raised in Limpopo with Tshivenda as his home language.

He has built a respected career serving communities in KZN. 

POPCRU described him as a dedicated and highly qualified officer whose service reflects the diversity of both the SAPS and the country.

The union warned that personal attacks based on language or ethnicity undermine constitutional values and erode trust between communities and the police.

Political analyst Siyabonga Ntombela weighed in, urging South Africans to interrogate the issues more carefully rather than collapsing them into ’emotionally charged’ labels.

“Xenophobia and tribalism are closely related but not similar,” Ntombela said.

He cautioned against mixing distinct concepts in a way that fuels public anger rather than understanding.

He said tribalism is dangerous when used to justify hostility.

Reflecting on the video at the centre of the controversy, he said the confrontation could have unfolded very differently.

“The lady could have ventilated her frustrations in a polite and respectful manner not resorting to name calling,” he said.

He added that the harm lay not only in the words used but in the intention behind them.

The debate has also exposed fault lines around language expectations in public office.

Ntombela warned against allowing such debates to slide into ethnic exclusion.

“Issues of ethnicity, tribalism in other countries have led to genocides if not handled with care and urgency they deserve,” he said.

POPCRU shared that concern, stressing that KZN diversity should be a source of strength rather than division.

The union described it as “unfair and deeply regrettable” for any police officer to be targeted.

POPCRU highlighted Netshiunda’s professional achievements, congratulating him on being named Administration Officer of the Year at the Provincial Commissioner’s Excellence Awards.

Recognition, the union said, showcases his professionalism and outstanding contribution to policing in the province.

As emotions continue to run high, the union has called for restraint and reflection.

“We call upon all communities to reject tribalism and embrace the values of tolerance, mutual respect, and unity in diversity.”

IOL News

Source link