The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) is set to make a decision regarding whether action will be taken against Nota Baloyi, following controversial remarks he made about white people. Baloyi, whose real name is Nhlamulo Baloyi, recently stirred up significant public backlash after claiming that white people are “inferior” and calling them “inhuman.” These statements were made during his appearance on the podcast The Hustler’s Corner on Monday, February 17.
During the podcast, Baloyi argued that white people are biologically inferior to Black people, claiming, “They are inferior species (compared) to us. We’re Homo Sapiens; they have got Neanderthal blood in them. This is the science. This science was not done by black people, it was done by them.” He also made reference to Clive Derby-Lewis, a man convicted for the assassination of struggle icon Chris Hani, referring to him as a “eugenicist.”
The SAHRC has confirmed that it received several complaints in response to Baloyi’s comments. The commission is currently assessing the situation and will determine the appropriate course of action, which could potentially include initiating proceedings in the Equality Court. The SAHRC is evaluating the matter under the provisions of the South African Human Rights Commission Act and the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act.
While the SAHRC acknowledges that freedom of expression is a fundamental right, it emphasized that this right is not absolute. Hate speech, as well as the incitement of violence or war, are prohibited, and the commission made it clear that podcasts are not exempt from these limitations. The guests and owners of podcasts are subject to the country’s laws and the Constitution, just like any other public platform.
The commission is expected to release an update on their decision by Friday, determining whether any formal action will be taken against Baloyi for his controversial remarks.
