Racial jokes a daunting challenge in post-apartheid South Africa

MORE than 20 years into democracy‚ many South African comedians still find it a daunting challenge to make racial jokes on radio.

Many still tiptoe around this subject, fearing their gags might be taken out of context and they might be pulled off air because the country has not fully addressed the injustices of the past.

Comedian Chris Forrest said South Africa was in a delicate stage where different races had mixed emotions because many issues had been swept under the carpet.

“Comedians mirror society and the jokes we make are a true reflection of our country,” he said.

“Race is still a sensitive subject but it must be tackled.”

Comedian and Massiv Metro presenter Lihle Msimang does not shy away from race jokes‚ because she believes comedians can play a pivotal role in getting South Africans to open up about many critical issues.

“Radio is an educational platform that matches well with comedians because we talk about what is happening in real life,” she said.

“Racial tension is real in some parts of South Africa and comedians must touch on the subject because it is a reality that must be addressed.”

Another comedian, Jozi FM presenter Pelepele Mchunu‚ said the beauty about radio was that it reached a diverse audience, hence it was important for those behind the microphone to ensure that their right to freedom of expression did not promote hate or prejudice.

“Unlike comedy clubs‚ comedy is a lot more guarded on radio. There are so many boundaries,” he said.

“Racial jokes are often avoided because the intention is not to offend the listeners.

“I’ve seen instances where comedians have been pulled off air because of a bad joke, but if you look deeper into it, you realise that the joke simply mirrors what is happening in society.”

Hannes Brummer, from CliffCentral, said there was space for more comedians on radio because they could help South Africans resolve their differences while laughing at themselves.

“Our job as comedians is to make people laugh and to find humour in different situations,” he said.

“Comedians can help you think differently. They help engage serious matters with a light approach.

“It’s unfortunate that [Tumi] Morake has been attacked for expressing her view. The good thing that came out of this is that it has once again forced us to look at ourselves and listen to each other as South Africans.”

There has been tension between Jacaranda FM presenter Morake and the station’s listeners.

Morake was the victim of racial slurs following her remarks about South Africa’s transition from the apartheid area.

The television and radio personality compared apartheid to a bully taking a child’s bicycle and then the child was made to share the bicycle‚ post-apartheid.

Morake stood by her statement and Kagiso Media’s chief executive Mark Harris said Morake had the station’s full support.

“Kagiso Media congratulates Morake for having the willingness to engage and listen to contrary views,” Harris said.

“She does this despite criticism‚ intimidation and threats from some parties in society.” – TimesLIVE