South Africa’s Urgent Need for Protections against Discrimination towards Persons with Albinism

South African Traditional Healer Faces Court Appearance over Albinism Misinformation Video

Amnesty International and National Albinism Task Force Call for Protection of Persons with Albinism

As the court appearance of South African traditional healer Bongolethu “Dr Khehlelezi” Mzozo approaches, Amnesty International and the National Albinism Task Force are calling on the South African government to protect the rights of persons with albinism in the country. Mzozo is facing charges related to the spreading of misinformation about persons with albinism in a video that was shared on YouTube in April 2023.

Amnesty International, a global human rights organization, and the National Albinism Task Force have expressed concern about the discrimination, hostility, and violence that persons with albinism face. They argue that the video shared by Mzozo is discriminatory and constitutes hate speech against persons with albinism.

Equal Rights for All

Tigere Chagutah, Amnesty International’s Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, emphasized that persons with albinism are entitled to the same human rights as everyone else. They should be protected from discrimination and any advocacy of hatred. Chagutah expressed deep concern about the marginalization and discrimination faced by persons with albinism, as perpetuating hate and discrimination puts them at risk of harm.

Challenges Faced by Persons with Albinism

Persons with albinism in South Africa endure structural and systemic discrimination. They live in fear for their lives, as they are actively hunted and killed for their body parts in many countries across the southern Africa region. The graves of the deceased are often tampered with, and their remains are stolen.

Legal Action and Advocacy

In response to the video, the Thembisilemadlala Albinism Foundation, supported by The National Albinism Task Force, lodged a case with the Equality Court. They argue that the content of the video violates Section 20 of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act of 2000 (PEPUDA). This legislation prohibits the propagation of words that incite harm, promote hatred, or demonstrate a clear intention to be hurtful.

Following failed attempts to mediate or settle the case, the applicants are now seeking just and equitable relief through the court. They raise concerns about the reported disappearance of two people in Kwa Zulu-Natal after the video’s release, as well as the ongoing violence, harm, and discrimination experienced by persons with albinism in South Africa.

Call to Action

Amnesty International and the National Albinism Task Force are calling on the South African government to take immediate measures to respect, promote, and fulfill the rights of persons with albinism. They urge the government to eradicate discrimination, counter misinformation, and challenge stereotypes about persons with albinism.

Chairperson of the National Albinism Task Force, Patrick Wadula, calls on all South Africans to stand in solidarity with people with albinism. He emphasizes the importance of condemning and reporting any behavior that advocates hatred and incites discrimination against persons with albinism.

Solidarity March

In a show of support, albinism organizations will gather at Gandhi Park in Verulam, Kwa Zulu-Natal, for a solidarity march on Friday, October 27. The march will proceed via George Superside Road to the Equality Court at the Verulam Magistrate Court for the hearing of the case.

Conclusion

The court appearance of Bongolethu “Dr Khehlelezi” Mzozo marks a critical moment for the protection of persons with albinism in South Africa. As the proceedings unfold, it is essential for the South African government to demonstrate its commitment to equality, human rights, and social justice. By taking meaningful action against those who propagate hate speech and discrimination, the government can pave the way for a more inclusive and just society.

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