City remains committed to fighting racism

15 December 2015

This past weekend, I became aware of an unfortunate incident which took place during the HSBC Sevens World Series tournament at the Cape Town Stadium on Saturday, 12 December 2015. 

My office contacted the complainant, Mr Don Johnstone asking him for the full details of the incident so that we can assist with an investigation.

The City condemns any form of racism and I wish to commend Mr Johnstone for confronting a fellow spectator or a number of spectators that purportedly referred to the Blitzboks wing Seabelo Senatla as a "baboon" during the Pool B match against Kenya.

My office will facilitate and ensure that the matter is reported, assessed and investigated by the relevant and competent authorities for further action as deemed necessary. 

We will provide any support needed for dealing with this matter. 

In launching our Inclusive City/Anti-racism campaign on Human Rights Day this year, we undertook to speak out and address complaints and incidents of alleged racism when it occurs. 

The majority of South Africans are not racists but it is a minority which creates a dangerous perception and we simply cannot allow racist to speak for us. 

I commend those who know their rights and tackle these issues. 

We remain committed to working with citizens to resolve such incidents. 

Issued by Zara Nicholson, Spokesperson for the Executive Mayor Patricia de Lille, Cape Town, 15 December 2015