DA to refer ANC MP’s hate speech to Ethics Committee

16 January 2016

The DA is deeply disturbed and disgusted by ANC MP, Bongani Mkongi's calls for the 'Zuma Must Fall' billboard in Cape Town, as well as the building it is on and its occupants, to be burnt down.

I will write to the Joint Committee on Ethics and Members' Interests and request that it investigates Mkongi's remarks and conduct as a matter of urgency.

Mkongi's remarks not only violate our country's constitutional and reconciliatory principles, but are tantamount to hate speech and incitement to violence, and require thorough investigation.

During this time of heated public debate, South Africans, particularly its Members of Parliament who are expected to lead national discourse, need to engage one another in manner that leads to solutions not exacerbating incitements of violence such as arson. 

The DA remains committed to our nations democratic principles and the eradication of racism, and will do everything in our power to ensure transgressors and hatemongers are held to account.

Statement issued by John Steenhuisen MP, DA Chief Whip, 16 January 2016

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