KwaZulu-Natal Legislature calls for Ngizwe Mchunu to apologise for homophobic remarks
Former Ukhozi FM presenter Ngizwe Mchunu.
Image: File
The KwaZulu-Natal Legislature has called for the former radio presenter Ngiwe Mchunu to apologise for making homophobic remarks.
“These comments, made in response to a same-sex customary marriage, undermine the dignity and equality of individuals and stand in direct conflict with the values enshrined in our Constitution,” said the speaker of the legislature, Nontembeko Boyce.
She said KwaZulu-Natal has tragically seen some of the most horrific killings of LGBTQIA+ people in South Africa. Families continue to mourn loved ones who have been brutally targeted simply because of who they are or whom they love. she added that it is against this painful backdrop that Mchunu’s remarks are particularly dangerous.
The Sunday Tribune reported that Mchunu had posted a now-deleted Facebook video last week in which he made offensive remarks about the LGBTQIA+ community. His comments were sparked by the wedding photos of gay couple Simon Nhlapo and Crosby Jodwana, who recently wed wearing imvunulo (traditional Zulu attire).
Boyce said Mchunu's words do not exist in isolation; they fuel an environment of hate, legitimise prejudice, and embolden acts of violence. "When public figures spread homophobia, they directly contribute to the culture of fear and the rise of hate crimes that already scar our province.
“The KwaZulu-Natal Legislature also supports the demand that Mr Mchunu issue a public apology to the LGBTQIA+ community, undergo sensitivity and inclusivity training, and commit acts of solidarity and kindness toward queer people. Legal accountability must follow, because constitutional rights cannot be undermined without consequence.
“We therefore call for accountability and urge institutions such as the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) and the Commission for Gender Equality to intervene decisively. The matter must be reported to the SAHRC, which has the mandate to investigate and assist complainants in approaching the Equality Court.
“We call on all leaders, traditional leadership, cultural custodians, and our communities to reject hate and stand firm in defence of human rights. True African culture is rooted in ubuntu, humanity, compassion, and respect. Any attempt to weaponise culture against others is a distortion of its true essence,” she concluded.