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The South African Communist Party (SACP), Gauteng Province, has formally lodged a complaint with the Gauteng Provincial Legislature and the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) against Democratic Alliance Leader, Mr. John Steenhuisen, following his racist remarks directed at Gauteng Crime Wardens.

In observance of Human Rights Month, the SACP in Gauteng staged a picket at Constitutional Hill to deliver a Memorandum of Demands concerning Mr. Steenhuisen's recent disparaging comments. The memorandum was received by SAHRC Provincial Manager, Ms. Zamantungwa Mbeki.

Additionally, the SACP submitted a memorandum of demands to the Speaker of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature Ms Ntombi Mekgwe, who will further escalate the matter to the National Assembly, where Mr. Steenhuisen is a member, for appropriate action. This action follows the SACP's filing of a case of crimen injuria with the police in Soshanguve on Human Rights Day, 21 March 2024.

Mr. Steenhuisen's comments, particularly his characterization of Gauteng crime wardens, are not only derogatory but also undermine the inherent dignity and rights of individuals, as outlined in Section 10 of the Constitution. By insinuating that the wardens are unfit and untrained individuals plucked from shebeens, Mr. Steenhuisen has displayed a flagrant disregard for their rights. We firmly believe that these remarks perpetuate harmful stereotypes with clear racial undertones.

As a leader of a major political party, Mr. Steenhuisen's words carry weight and influence, and he must be held accountable for his remarks. It is imperative that he is held accountable for his inflammatory and divisive rhetoric, which not only sow seeds of discord but also undermine the progress our nation has made in fostering equality and dignity for all.

In light of these concerns, the SACP has formally submitted a complaint to the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), calling for an investigation into Mr. Steenhuisen's conduct and appropriate remedial action. We await a response from the SAHRC within 14 days.

Issued by the South African Communist Party, Gauteng Province