Controversial media personality and former Ukhozi FM presenter Ngizwe Mchunu is once again at the centre of national controversy after the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) confirmed that it has received multiple complaints relating to his recent public remarks.
The complaints stem from comments allegedly made during an episode of the ‘Bhinca Nation’ podcast and other online discussions, where Mchunu allegedly used derogatory language directed at the Indian community. Clips from the podcast quickly spread across social media platforms, triggering outrage and fierce public debate across the country.
According to the SAHRC, the complaints are currently being assessed in line with the commission’s complaints handling procedures to determine whether the statements violated South Africa’s hate speech and equality laws.
Human rights organisations and community groups have strongly condemned the remarks, warning that inflammatory language by influential public figures could deepen racial tensions in an already fragile social climate.
The South African Hindu Dharma Sabha is among the organisations that lodged formal complaints against Mchunu. The organisation described the comments as offensive and dangerous, arguing that the language used could incite hatred and division.
The Ahmed Kathrada Foundation also criticised the remarks, saying hate-driven rhetoric has no place in a democratic society founded on equality, dignity and non-racialism.
SAHRC spokesperson Wisani Baloyi reminded the public that while freedom of expression is protected under the Constitution, it is not absolute.
“The Constitution and the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act prohibit utterances that are intended to be harmful or propagate hatred,” Baloyi said.
The latest controversy has sharply divided South Africans online. Some social media users defended Mchunu, arguing that he is outspoken and raises uncomfortable issues many politicians avoid discussing publicly. Others, however, accused him of repeatedly crossing the line and using divisive language that targets specific communities.
This is not the first time Mchunu has faced backlash over controversial statements. In previous incidents, complaints were also lodged against him over alleged remarks targeting members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Political analysts and civil society groups say the controversy has reignited broader national conversations around hate speech laws, freedom of expression, race relations and accountability on social media platforms.
Many South Africans are now waiting to see whether the SAHRC will escalate the matter further, refer it to the Equality Court, or recommend corrective action following its assessment of the complaints.
Ngizwe Mchunu was contacted for comments, however, none were received at the time of going to print.
