The Open Chats Podcast is facing severe backlash after making racist remarks about the Coloured community. In a recent episode, the hosts described Coloured people as “incestuous” and “crazy,” sparking national outrage. The clip went viral, leading to an outpouring of condemnation on social media and from civil society.
Gayton McKenzie, Minister of Sports, Arts, and Culture and leader of the Patriotic Alliance, has vowed to take legal action against the hosts. In a video message, he stated, “It’s racism. We must never allow people to become that comfortable.” McKenzie announced he would use every legal tool at his disposal to address the matter and promised to update the public regularly on his efforts.
Despite the podcast issuing an apology, claiming that the comments were not meant to harm, McKenzie rejected the apology, insisting that the hosts be held accountable in their personal capacities. He believes that allowing such remarks to go unchecked sets a dangerous precedent.
Deputy Minister in the Presidency for Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike, also condemned the comments, emphasising that they contradicted the values of inclusivity and respect that South Africa strives to uphold. Letsike stressed that every community deserves dignity and respect, and public platforms should foster unity rather than division.
Singer Honeshma Margarido also addressed the issue after her appearance on the podcast. Margarido had made harmful generalisations about Coloured men she had dated, calling them “crazy mentally.” She later took to social media, issuing a heartfelt apology, expressing regret for her words and acknowledging the harm they caused. She stated, “I now understand that what I said was ignorant, irresponsible, and damaging. I take full accountability for my words.”
Comedian Marc Lottering humorously responded to the controversy, posting a sarcastic remark on social media. “As someone who is mentally slow and who sleeps with his cousins, I’ve actually done rather well for myself. And nogal without hosting a podcast. Shem.” His tongue-in-cheek response highlighted the absurdity of the stereotypes being perpetuated.
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