Share

SAHRC delays probe into Willemse's racism claims

Cape Town - The South African Human Rights Commission's (SAHRC) investigation into alleged racism at pay-channel SuperSport was delayed this week.

It was reported earlier in the week that the first sessions into the affair would be held at the Apartheid Museum on Wednesday and Friday.

However, according to Netwerk24, the sessions were delayed as the SAHRC was not yet ready.

Buang Jones, the SAHRC’s head of legal services, said the sessions were postponed because the panel chosen to hear the case needed more time to prepare.

The investigation follows after former Springbok wing Ashwin Willemse last year stunned the rugby world when he walked off a live SuperSport set, accusing fellow analysts Nick Mallett and Naas Botha of "patronising" and "undermining" him.

SuperSport's subsequent investigation into the matter found no racism on the part of Botha or Mallett.

Willemse opted not to participate in the investigation and instead took the matter to the SAHRC, who subsequently confirmed that they would conduct a formal and public inquiry into allegations of racism at SuperSport.

The SAHRC encouraged SuperSport employees - both past and present - and any other parties to make written submissions of any racism or discrimination they may have experienced with their dealings with the broadcaster.

It is not clear which role players would be called upon to give testimony.

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1272 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1470 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2240 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE