ANC Youth League President Collen Malatji has strongly criticised Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie’s online behaviour and Deputy Defence Minister Bantu Holomisa’s controversial “go to hell” comment during a live radio interview, calling both incidents reckless displays of populism and political self-interest.

Malatji expressed concern over the behaviour of opposition parties within the Government of National Unity (GNU).

He said their recent actions highlight a lack of preparedness for leadership.

“The conduct of opposition leaders in the GNU has exposed their lack of seriousness and capability,” he said in a media briefing in Johannesburg on Wednesday.

“The DA continues to undermine government protocols and demonstrates arrogance in the GNU.”

Malatji criticised McKenzie and Holomisa, saying they had “embarrassed themselves with recklessness and uninformed statements.”

“These incidents expose a critical truth – many of these parties are not ready to lead South Africa. They are driven only by populism and self-interest.”

The GNU, led by the ANC, has faced mounting internal tensions since its formation, with repeated clashes between the ANC and the Democratic Alliance over policy implementation.

The SA Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) recently announced it is investigating resurfaced social media posts by McKenzie, including the alleged use of the “K-word” and xenophobic remarks dating back to 2011.

McKenzie has denied all allegations of racism and hate speech, refusing to apologise.

“Not one of my tweets has demonstrated any intention to harm, incite harm, or promote hatred, as required under the legal test established in Qwelane v South African Human Rights Commission (2021),” McKenzie said in a statement. 

“Instead, they reflect my consistent anti-racist stance.”

The SAHRC previously said it had sent a letter of allegation to McKenzie and may proceed to institute proceedings in the Equality Court.

“Following an assessment of the contents, the Commission is of the view that utterances made by Minister McKenzie are prima facie violations of the provisions of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act (Equality Act), 2000,” the SAHRC said.

McKenzie claimed that the Commission defamed him by publicising the allegations before offering him a hearing.

Meanwhile, Holomisa, who is the leader of the United Democratic Movement (UDM) leader and Deputy Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, recently came under fire for an on-air exchange during a live interview on KZN based radio station, Gagasi FM.

The confrontation began when a caller accused Holomisa of arrogance and discrimination.

“I’m noticing that the general is arrogant,” said the caller. 

“There was a previous caller, and the general responded by questioning whether he had been taught respect in his language. For me, that is discrimination.”

Holomisa responded, “This is a compliment if you are saying I’m arrogant. You are also arrogant.”

When the caller continued, calling Holomisa “useless,” the deputy minister snapped, “Thank you very much, you didn’t vote for me, go to hell.”

The presenter Alex Mthiyane stepped in, urging Holomisa to retract the remark, citing his position as a public official.

However, Holomisa refused. “He told you I’m not his leader and he didn’t vote for me. Why are you protecting him, allowing him to disrespect me? If you are not satisfied, go to hell as well.”

The caller later added, “I’m disappointed that we have leaders like you. That is why we have issues at Goma and at the borders – because of people like you.”

Mthiyane ended the interview after 30 minutes, thanking Holomisa but cutting the discussion short.

simon.majadibodu@iol.co.za

IOL Politics

Source link