Lifestyle/Community
SAJBD expresses its horror at racist ‘coffin assault’
The South African Jewish Board of Deputies expressed outrage last week over a high profile “coffin assault” in Mpumalanga where a black farmworker was forced into a coffin by two white farmers who threatened to set him alight. The board said the incident highlighted the need for greater awareness and legislation of hate crimes in this country.
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Speaking on behalf of the Board, Director Wendy Kahn said the Board was “horrified by the shocking racial attack”.
Victor Rethabile Mlotshwa (27) was kidnapped, forced inside a coffin and threatened with his life.
Willem Oosthuizen (28) and Theo Martins Jackson (29) stand accused of the attack after Mlotshwa apparently took a shortcut through their farm. Footage of the incident, which reportedly took place near Middelburg, went viral on social media, sparking outrage.
“Most South Africans strive each day to build a country in which human rights, including the principles of dignity and freedom, are afforded to all who live in it,” the SAJBD said in a statement. “Acts of humiliation and hate have no place in a multicultural and democratic South Africa and we call on all concerned citizens to speak out on incidences of racism and discrimination wherever they take place.
“This terrible event once again highlights the need for increased awareness and education on the scourge of hate crimes. Legislation on hate crimes would not only combat and assist in the prevention of incidences of hate, but allow for formal monitoring of cases which would provide important data on the scale of this important issue.
“We urge all South Africans to give their input on the proposed Prevention of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill. Deadline for submissions is 31 January 31, 2017.”
Outrage over the coffin incident has been so universal, with demonstrations outside court, that Oosthuizen and Jackson abandoned their bail application in the Middelburg Magistrate’s Court, saying they are safer inside jail than outside. There was a heavy police presence.
Speaking after the court hearing, Mlotshwa told how frightened he had been. He thought he was going to get killed.
EFF, DA and ANC supporters demonstrated outside the court, waving placards denouncing the racist attack and demanding a heavy sentence.
ANC Youth League President Desmond Moela lambasted the EFF and DA for being there, saying: “Victor is an ANC and ANC Youth League member.”
The case has been postponed to January 25 for further investigation.