Criminal charges brought against Tshwane council racist
30 July 2024
On 29 July, the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Tshwane filed a case with the South African Police Service (SAPS) against Economic Freedom Fighter (EFF) Tshwane Councillor Obakeng Ramabodu for his racist remarks during July’s Ordinary Council Meeting.
The Council meeting, which included a Motion of No Confidence (MONC) against Executive Mayor Cilliers Brink, quickly descended into chaos when the African National Congress (ANC) and EFF realized they lacked sufficient votes to remove the Executive Mayor. Both parties chose to disrupt the meeting through violence and intimidation.
During these disruptions, EFF Caucus Leader Obakeng Ramabodu stated, "I would be happy to moer a boere. I want the blood of an Afrikaner." These appalling words constitute hate speech, and the DA condemns these racist remarks by the EFF leader. Councillors are leaders of society, and such irresponsible remarks by Councillor Ramabodu can have serious real-world consequences.
Racism has no place in Tshwane. Consequently, the DA has referred Councillor Ramabodu to the Rules & Ethics Committee and requested that the Chief Whip refer Councillor Ramabodu to the Gauteng MEC of CoGTA. Additionally, the DA has submitted a complaint to the Human Rights Commission to investigate him for hate speech and incitement of violence.
This is not the first time the DA has had to open cases against the EFF in Tshwane. On 1 September 2023, cases were filed against EFF Councillors for the assault of DA Councillors in Chambers. Under the leadership of Councillor Ramabodu, the EFF has proven to be a divisive and destabilizing force in Tshwane.
We remain committed to being the builders of society, standing strong against those who seek to break it. There is no place for racism in our politics or our society. The DA will continue to fight against hate, violence, and division, ensuring that Tshwane is a City where all are respected and valued
Issued by Kwena Moloto, DA Tshwane Spokesperson, 30 July 2024
