Mayor puts his foot down on racism

Joburg mayor Herman Mashaba suspended an employee of the city for racism after he referred “in an insulting manner to a so-called ‘black mentality’”.

According to Mashaba, the city reacted to a video in which the official can be seen verbally abusing one of Johannesburg’s newly insourced security guards.

The incident took place at the Eldorado Park swimming pool where the man allegedly expressed regret that school facilities in that township could be used by black children.

Mashaba said he would advise security guards who allegedly endured the racist treatment to open a case of crimen injuria.

“The city has worked hard to restore the dignity of our security guards through our insourcing efforts and they now enjoy decent wages and benefits,” he said. “Such deplorable conduct is intolerable by all standards.

“There must be no place for racism, it must be condemned and addressed decisively. Racists must never feel that they can operate with impunity, or that their behaviour is acceptable in any circles.

“I have asked the [member of the mayoral committee] for community development Nonhlanhla Sifumba to follow this disciplinary case in order to ensure that justice is indeed served,” he added.

“I call upon residents of the city to condemn racism, ensure our collective voice is one that unites our country, overcomes the pain of our past, and builds a prosperous and more equitable future for all.”