Boycotts cost me, Hofmeyr claims

Afrikaans singer Steve Hofmeyr claims that several boycotts against him because of his outspoken views on the government have led to his missing out on “vast amounts of income”.

Hofmeyr has come under fire several times for his “racially provocative right-wing” comments on political issues.

He was previously reported as saying that lots of aspects of apartheid “were brilliant”.

In an interview with The Citizen in 2016‚ Hofmeyr was quoted as saying that he could trace his African roots further back than EFF leader Julius Malema could.

He also said he would not have supported the 1976 Soweto march by school pupils because they rejected an Afrikaans education in favour of an education they did not pay for.

These and other remarks have led to several festivals and events boycotting the star‚ and Hofmeyr said this week it had hit him in the pocket.

After veteran journalist Lin Sampson claimed that she had lost many followers after sharing her admiration for Hofmeyr, the musician said he had made a loss but was not here for accolades anyway.

“I salute you. When I criticise black government or exercise freedom of speech or enjoy my cultural expression‚ I lose vast amounts of income to boycotts.

“Fact: we don’t do this for accolades‚” he tweeted.

This sentiment was shared by another Afrikaans musician‚ Jay du Plessis‚ who said he too felt the effects of speaking out.

Three years ago, Hofmeyr wrote on Facebook: “If Afrikaners‚ Boere and whites support the festivals that boycott me‚ I will know to step out of the debate.” –