McKenzie awaits Broos response over racism and sexism allegations

Bafana Bafana

Pretoria – Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie says he is waiting for an explanation from SAFA and Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos before commenting on allegations that the coach made racist and sexist remarks.

“I’m awaiting the response from SAFA & Coach Hugo Broos before i comment. The comments made by the coach requires clarification as it is open to any interpretation currently,” tweeted McKenzie.

The controversy follows comments Broos made at a press conference after defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi missed a flight to join the national team camp.

‘He is a black guy but when he comes out of my room he will be white,’ Broos said of Mbokazi.

Broos further took aim at Mbokazi’s decision to move to Major League Soccer in the United States with Chicago Fire, while also making a dismissive remark about the player’s agent, Basia Michaels, describing her as a “nice little woman” who he said believes she understands football.

The United Democratic Movement (UDM) has lodged complaints with SAFA and the South African Human Rights Commission, citing remarks Broos made about Mbokazi and his agent, Basia Michaels, which they say were racially suggestive and sexist.

“These remarks, if confirmed, constitute racially suggestive and sexist utterances that demean the dignity of the individuals concerned and undermine the constitutional values that govern all public institutions, including national sports structures,” said the UDM in a statement.

The UDM has called for Broos to be held accountable, arguing that such comments undermine constitutional values.

The incident has cast a shadow over Bafana Bafana’s preparations for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which begins in Morocco later this month, with Broos’ response and any potential fallout still pending.

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Compiled by Betha Madhomu 

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