DA reports ANC to SAHRC following “terrorist” insult at election debate

8 July 2016

At a Livity Africa debate in Nelson Mandela Bay yesterday afternoon, ANC members and supporters in the audience called me a “terrorist” and from “boko haram” because I am Muslim.  

This discrimination has no place in a democratic South Africa, where there should be religious tolerance and understanding of others religious beliefs. 

The ANC took no steps to stop their supporters insulting me in this way. 

I have therefore decided to report the ANC to the South African Human Rights Commission to investigate this matter and to ensure proper remedial action is taken. 

It is vital that we act on all instances of bigotry, racism, homophobia, religious intolerance and xenophobia. This discrimination tears apart the very fabric of our constitutional democracy, and undermines the vision of 1994; that of a prosperous South Africa, united in its diversity.

The DA is committed to this legacy. Our principles of Freedom, Fairness and Opportunity are at the heart of what we believe in and stand for. 

Issued by Yusuf Cassim, DASO Leader, 8 July 2016