Open Chats Podcast Faces Legal Heat! McKenzie Slams 'Racist' Remarks!
Gayton McKenzie to Sue Open Chats Podcast Over 'Racist' Comments!
Johannesburg - Patriotic Alliance (PA) leader Gayton McKenzie is taking a firm stance against alleged disparaging remarks made by the Open Chats podcast team regarding the coloured community. McKenzie has announced plans to sue the podcasters following an episode where the community was reportedly referred to as 'crazy' with allegations of incest being common.
McKenzie has tasked the PA's legal team to provide a report outlining the potential legal avenues available. While the Open Chats podcast has since issued an apology and removed the controversial segment from their episode, McKenzie insists that this is insufficient.
"I want us to use everything at our disposal. It's racism. We must never allow people to become that comfortable. If we had to say that about other races, it would have been on every front page," McKenzie stated, emphasizing the seriousness of the alleged remarks.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has also taken action, reporting the podcast to the South African Human Rights Commission. This highlights the widespread condemnation of the comments.
Podcast Apology Deemed Insufficient
The Open Chats team issued an apology, acknowledging the coloured community as a significant part of their audience and stating they never intended to cause harm or disrespect. They maintained that while the podcast often tackles sensitive subjects, it does not endorse racism or discrimination.
However, McKenzie remains resolute. "We are going to go after them in their personal capacity, legally. We are going to go after that show," he declared. He plans to inform PA members of the planned legal action.
This case underscores the sensitivity surrounding racial issues in South Africa and the potential consequences for those who make disparaging remarks, even in the context of a podcast.