Hugo Broos not off the hook over Mbokazi racism storm

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has confirmed it is moving forward with its investigation into Bafana Bafana coach Hugo Broos, a process that could potentially lead to litigation.

The inquiry stems from complaints of racial and gender discrimination filed last year by the United Democratic Movement (UDM) and the public. The complaints were lodged following remarks made by Broos concerning Bafana defender Mbekezeli Mbokazi and his agent, Basia Michaels.

The incident occurred during a press conference in Pretoria, where an agitated Broos voiced his frustration over Mbokazi’s transfer from Orlando Pirates to Chicago Fire.

The coach was also displeased that the player was late to the national team’s training camp at the University of Pretoria’s High Performance Centre, where they were preparing for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Bafana coach may have case to answer

In a statement, the SAHRC explained that after a preliminary review, it found a potential case of unfair discrimination.

“Following a preliminary assessment of the complaint and the information available to the commissions, it was determined that a prima facie case of unfair discrimination may exist within the meaning of the Promotion of Equality and Prevention of Unfair Discrimination Act (PEPUDA) and the equality and dignity provisions of sections 9 and 10 of the constitution,” the commission stated as quoted by Times Live.

Initially, the SAHRC and the Commission for Gender Equality (CGE) attempted to resolve the matter through mediation, viewing it as a swift way to address the allegations and seek remedies. However, these efforts were unsuccessful.

Mediation attempts with Hugo Broos’ camp

“Following the unsuccessful attempts to convene mediation due to the respondents’ unavailability and their understanding to have finalised the matters internally, the commissions have accordingly resolved to initiate their internal processes to prepare a report with recommendations, which could include litigation,” the SAHRC added.

The commission noted that a request for parliamentary oversight at this point is premature, emphasising that both the SAHRC and the CGE must be allowed to complete their investigative procedures as mandated by law.

Once these processes are concluded, the outcomes will be made public. The commissions reiterated their commitment to addressing all allegations of discrimination, racism, and sexism decisively and in line with South African law.