Outrage as Coetzee’s insults spark legal action over ‘baboons’ insult

Democratic Alliance (DA) in Tshwane has refused to tolerate the racist remarks made by ActionSA Councillor, Jacobus Coetzee.

During Council meeting on Thursday, Coetzee referred to DA councillors as “baboons”, sparking outrage among the DA Caucus.

“It is unacceptable for a public representative to use such distasteful and derogatory language,” said DA Tshwane Caucus Chief Whip Ofentse Madzebatela Mabizela.

“This type of hate speech goes against values enshrined in our Constitution and the Code of Conduct for Councillors.”

Mabizela has called for the matter to be referred to Section 79 Standing Committee: Rules & Ethics, and has also vowed to take legal action against Coetzee.

“We will not tolerate attacks on the human dignity of our councillors,” he stated.

DA plans to escalate the issue by involving the Human Rights Commission and calling on ActionSA leadership to address the behaviour of their member.

Mabizela also announced the party will file a complaint with the Gauteng MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs in an effort to have Coetzee removed from office.

“We cannot allow individuals with such backward mindsets to continue representing the public,” Mabizela declared.

“We cannot sit back and allow public representatives with this backward mindset to continue to hold office. It is not in the best interest of the public,” added Mabizela.