DURBAN – THE DA in uMhlathuze Local Municipality has laid defamation charges this past weekend, against a Richards Bay man for homophobic comments directed at on one of its councillors.
Heinz De Boer, the party’s MPL and DA King Cetshwayo constituency head said in a statement the homophobic statements were made on social media.
It said the charges stem from two incidents in which the resident allegedly messaged DA councillor Ethan Ramkuar and made various derogatory and defamatory statements against him. The resident reportedly said he “hates gay people”.
“Councillor Ramkuar does not identify as gay, but is an avid defender of the rights of the LGBTQI+ community,” the party said in a statement.
The DA said there is simply no place in society for the ongoing discrimination against anyone based on their race, social standing or sexual orientation.
“It is exactly these sorts of social media messages that further fan the flames of intolerance and hatred. Often it leads to incidents of violence against the LGBTQI+ community.
“The DA will continue to closely monitor the investigation and will insist that the matter is brought to court,” it said.
The party said KZN has already borne the brunt of much inequality and discrimination and there is simply no place for derogatory and prejudicial behaviour under a constitution that enshrines dignity and equality for all.
Police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Nqobile Gwala said a case had been opened at the Richards Bay SAPS.
She said the matter is under investigation.
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