LIMPOPO – Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba, along with the entire Limpopo government executive council, has expressed outrage over the comments made by the MK Party Youth League national convener Qiniso Cibane.

Cibane referred to fellow party member Nkateko Mkhabela as “iShangane from Limpopo”, a remark that has ignited widespread condemnation.

Ramathuba emphasised her commitment to protecting the dignity of all Limpopo residents.

She highlighted the province’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates its rich cultural diversity. The comments made by Cibane are seen as regressive, evoking sentiments from colonial times.

“The term ‘iShangane’ has historically been used to demean and marginalise individuals, stripping them of their cultural identity and reducing them to a subhuman status. Such language is unacceptable in our journey towards building a united South Africa that honours its diversity.”

In his apology, Cibane said that what he said was taken out of context. He said he was trying to defend Mkhabela from party members who were disrupting her while she was trying to speak.

“I stopped ill-disciplined behaviour, but there may be those who felt offended. I sincerely apologise. I was protecting Nkateko and protecting the party’s constitution. The MK belongs to all races, tribes and ethnicities and is not a Zulu party only. Our structure is represented by Tswana people, Xhosa, Zulu, Tsonga and others.”

Ramathuba criticised the “half-hearted” apology issued by Cibane, asserting that it fails to fully recognise the harm caused by perpetuating tribal divisions.

“We should not tolerate any justification for the use of derogatory terms. Those who use such language must reflect deeply and strive toward genuine reform,” added Ramathuba.

She said that Limpopo takes pride in its cultural richness, encompassing various groups, including VaTsonga/Machangana, Northern Sothos, Vhavenda, BaTswana, AmaNdebele, among others.