SAHRC probes Open Chats Podcast despite clip removal and apology

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has confirmed a probe into comments made by the Open Chats Podcast. The SAHRC says its investigation will continue despite the podcast production team deleting the clip from its full episode, and the apology that has since been issued. 

The Commission stated that it has send letters to the respondents and will then determine the best way forward.

"This may include instituting proceedings in the relevant Equality Court as per section 13(3)(b) of the South African Human Rights Commission Act 40 of 2013 (SAHRC Act), read withsection 20 of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act (Equality Act), 2000," it said.

In the clip, which has gone viral on social media, the hosts make several racist comments, claiming that not only do Coloured families have sexual relationships with each other (incest), but they also suffer mental issues.

"Coloureds apparently chow (have sex with) each other," one of the hosts says.

In response, a co-host says, "I do believe that because Coloureds are crazy.

"The Commission has noted that the hosts, through their lawyers, sought to apologise for their offensive remarks soon after the discussion went viral on social media and the discussion has since been removed from the episode.

"However, the Commission through its Gauteng Provincial Office has opened an own accord investigation and will continue with its investigative process," the SAHRC said.

Meanwhile, MultiChoice has confirmed that it dropped the Open Chats Podcast in July. 

"Open Chats’ contract with DStv ended on 25 July 2025, as the show was removed to make way for our August content slate. The episode in question was not aired on our platform," the broadcaster said. 

seanne.rall@iol.co.za

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