‘SuperSport incident rooted in racism’

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Ashwin Willemse insists his SuperSport studio walkout earlier this year was brought about by racism.

The incident, involving fellow rugby analysts Nick Mallett and Naas Botha, took place on 19 May after a Super Rugby match between the Lions and Brumbies. Willemse accused the duo of undermining him.

Willemse opted not to participate in the independent investigation that found that there was no underlying racism that led to the incident.

On Wednesday, the SA Human Rights Commission said it would investigate the circumstances that led to Willemse’s walkout.

ALSO READ: HRC to probe racism at SuperSport

In an interview with eNCA, Willemse said he stands by his initial beliefs.

‘I fundamentally believe that this issue was rooted in racism. And I would like this to be dealt with at an appropriate forum, or appropriate manner,’ he said.

‘I’m very confident in the Human Rights Commission … it’s an institution that is wholly responsible for the custodianship of human rights and human rights-related violations and issues … the promotion thereof within South Africa and the democratic dispensation of South Africa.

‘My confidence stems not from necessarily my position or the situation but it stems from the foundation of our liberation as a democratic, non-sexist, non-racist society equal in opportunities for all South Africans… our constitution is regarded as one of the best constitutions in the world.’

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SA Rugby magazine