The Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) has come out strongly against media personality Ngizwe Mchunu for what it described as “hateful and violent utterances” targeting members of the LGBTQIA+ community.
The remarks, allegedly made by Mchunu over the past weekend at the KwaMai-Mai establishment in Johannesburg, have sparked outrage for inciting discrimination and potential violence against queer people.
In a strongly worded statement, the CGE said Mchunu’s comments were not only deeply offensive but also a “grave violation of human rights and an incitement of violence against a marginalised community.”
“Words have consequences, and in this case, they have sown fear, division, and potential harm among an already vulnerable group,” the Commission warned.
The CGE expressed alarm over the growing normalisation of hate speech and the online support Mchunu’s comments have received. It said such responses reveal “the patriarchal, sexist, and misogynistic underpinnings that persist in our society.”
The Commission noted that hateful rhetoric discourages LGBTQIA+ people from accessing essential services — from healthcare and education to legal protection — leaving them even more vulnerable to violence and discrimination.
South Africa, it added, has a painful history of targeted attacks against queer people, particularly black lesbians in townships since the early 2000s.
“Such incidents remind us that harmful words can quickly escalate into acts of brutality,” the CGE said.
The Commission also called on government institutions, civil society, and the judiciary to act decisively against hate speech and to strengthen protections for LGBTQIA+ persons.
“It is not for Mr. Mchunu or any individual to determine the cultural belonging of queer people,” the CGE emphasised. “This must be a moment for national reflection — to reaffirm our shared humanity and the rich diversity that defines South Africa.”
Members of the public who wish to report gender-related complaints — including those related to Mchunu’s comments — can contact the CGE via gender-enquiries@cge.org.za or WhatsApp 083 284 2567.
