By Peter Ejiofor, London
Nigerians in South Africa have commended the South African Government for taking decisive action to combat hate crimes and hate speech and promote harmonious coexistence by enacting a law.
Nigerians, under the aegis of Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA), commended the government following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s signing into law on May 8, the country’s Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill.
The union, in a statement on Sunday, said it welcomed the landmark legislation. The law is significant in addressing the scourge of hate crimes that have plagued society for far too long.
President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill into law. The law is coming after almost two decades of advocacy. The Parliament passed the bill into law five months ago.
The Presidency, by signing into law the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill, makes hate crimes and hate speech jailable criminal offences for the first time in South Africa.
The new law aims to prevent hate crimes and hate speech by providing effective enforcement measures and the gathering and recording of data on hate crimes and hate speech.
This legislative measure gives effect to South Africa’s obligations in terms of the Constitution and international human rights instruments concerning racism, racial discrimination, Xenophobia, and related intolerance.
This brings South Africa in line with several other countries that have laws against hate crime and hate speech.
Countries like Brazil, Canada, Chile, France, Germany, Spain and the U.S. have similar laws.
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“NUSA is an organisation representing the interests of Nigerians living in South Africa. We have witnessed firsthand, the devastating impact of hate crimes on our community.
“We commend the South African government for taking decisive action to combat these harmful acts.
“It will also promote a culture of tolerance, understanding, and respect for all individuals. This is regardless of race, ethnicity, nationality, or other characteristics.
“We are particularly pleased that the law excludes artistic creativity, academic inquiry, fair reporting and religious expression from the ambit of hate speech.
“This is to ensure that freedom of expression is protected, while also preventing harm and incitement to violence,’’ Miller said.
The union urged all South Africans to embrace the law and work together to build a society that values diversity.
“We also call on the South African Police Service and the National Prosecuting Authority to ensure effective implementation and enforcement of this law and to provide necessary training and resources to combat hate crimes and hate speech.
“Let us all work together to create a society where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected.’’
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