The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has confirmed that it has launched an investigation into popular KwaZulu-Natal media personality Ngizwe Mchunu. This comes after multiple complaints were filed against him following a controversial video in which he made offensive remarks directed at the LGBTQIA+ community.
Complaints Trigger Probe
On Thursday, 2 October 2025, the SAHRC released a statement via its official website and X (formerly Twitter), announcing that it had received numerous complaints from members of the public and civil society organisations. These complaints related to remarks made by Mchunu in a video reacting to the wedding of Simon Seun Nhlapo and Crosby Jodwana, which took place on 27 September.
In its statement, the Commission explained that the complaints would be processed in line with its official Complaints Handling Procedure. The SAHRC also committed to communicating the outcome of its assessment in due course.
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“The Commission confirms that it has received complaints from aggrieved members of the public and civil society organisations regarding these alleged offensive remarks. The Commission is registering the complaints and will assess them… The Commission will communicate the outcome of the assessment of the complaints in due course,” the statement read.
Mchunu now joins a growing list of high-profile South Africans, including Nota Baloyi and Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton McKenzie, who have been investigated by the SAHRC over inflammatory public statements.
What Mchunu Said
The former Ukhozi FM host sparked outrage after posting a video where he openly criticised same-sex marriage and singled out well-known entertainer Somizi Mhlongo. In the video, Mchunu reportedly stated:
“A man who sleeps with another man? That is incredibly shameful. This is the root of societal troubles. And that mgodoyi [dog] Somizi, he should take all his people and leave South Africa. We will discriminate against you publicly now.”
Mchunu also expressed anger at one of the newlyweds wearing traditional Zulu attire during the ceremony, arguing that such clothing was reserved for Zulu royalty. He allegedly went as far as wishing a “plague” upon one of the grooms and said that he deserved to be punished.
Public Backlash
The remarks immediately drew criticism across social media, with many South Africans calling for decisive action against Mchunu.
One user, @SamoraMbambi, declared: “We intend to make an example out of him and others, using all legal means and administrative systems available.”
Another, @NdoniMabaso, argued: “Ngizwe must receive a harsher punishment this time. He’s been problematic and a loudmouth for too long. I just don’t understand why a grown man is so worried about other adults’ sexual orientation.”
Others demanded accountability, while some simply asked for clarity on what exactly was said in the viral video.
A History of Controversy
This is not the first time Mchunu has found himself in the middle of controversy. Previously, he faced public backlash for suggesting that Afrotainment singer Sizwe Mdlalose was gay, a claim that Mdlalose strongly denied. Mchunu has also been cleared of wrongdoing in connection to the July 2021 riots, during which he was initially accused of incitement.
The current SAHRC probe marks one of the most serious challenges yet to his public reputation, as growing calls mount for accountability over his comments.
Looking Ahead
While Mchunu has yet to issue a formal response, the SAHRC’s investigation could determine whether his remarks amount to hate speech under South African law. The outcome will be closely watched, not only because of his celebrity status, but also because it raises broader questions about free speech, accountability, and the protection of LGBTQIA+ rights in South Africa.
For now, the Commission has promised to keep the public updated as it continues with its probe.
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