SAHRC Takes a Stand: Kunene's Claims Dubbed "Reckless" and Misinformed

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has publicly voiced its concerns regarding comments made by Kenny Kunene, the Deputy President of the Patriotic Alliance (PA). Kunene’s statements, which the SAHRC has branded as “false and dangerous", were made in a recent interview with the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) regarding the withdrawal of Chidimma Adetshina from the Miss SA pageant over suspicion of identity theft by her mother.

During the interview, Kunene insinuated that the SAHRC employed foreign nationals from Nigeria and Zimbabwe — a claim that he suggested needed investigation by the Department of Home Affairs. Kunene also accused the SAHRC of threatening South Africans while defending foreigners, thereby undermining the institution's mandate and fueling xenophobic sentiments. His comments have sparked considerable backlash for their potential to incite hate speech and cyberbullying, as well as for the blatant disregard for factual information.

In response, the SAHRC has issued a statement reasserting its established role in the constitution of South Africa. The Commission’s mandate to promote human rights within the country is not one that it takes lightly. Handling approximately 6,000 complaints annually on various forms of discrimination and socio-economic challenges, the SAHRC has emphasized that it serves to defend the rights of all individuals within South Africa's borders, regardless of nationality.

Moreover, the SAHRC has clarified that it holds no position on Adetshina's eligibility for the beauty pageant, deferring to the Department of Home Affairs to comment on her citizenship status. The Commission also took to cautioning the public against spreading misinformation and engaging in harmful rhetoric.

The SAHRC's staunch defense of its functioning and purpose underlines the Commission's commitment to fostering a culture of human rights in South Africa. They have also stated that Kunene’s remarks will be reported to the Speaker of the City of Johannesburg, highlighting their gravity and the need for accountability.

Taken aback by the SAHRC’s strong refutation, the PA has seemingly stepped back from pursuing a legal case against the Miss SA organization following Adetshina's withdrawal.

In a nation grappling with complex issues of immigration and xenophobia, clarity and truthful representation from its leaders are crucial. The SAHRC's determined rectification of Kunene's comments exemplifies the organization's dedication to its mission and the protection of facts and rights within the discourse of South Africa's evolving social fabric.