Hate speech has no place in a democratic society. The meaning of democracy is to allow maximum representation, not to misuse the structure to corrupt, steal and abuse power. The Human Rights Commission will be asked to investigate a case of hate speech, following the conduct of elected representatives and the Speaker in the Makhado Municipal Council.

This is the view expressed by the TAU SA North following the Makhado Municipality’s name change meeting on April 12. The chairperson of the TAU SA North, Mr Dries Joubert, described the conduct of councillors during the meeting as an outrageous disgrace.

Mr Joubert says the council meeting which was called to discuss the name change of the town Louis Trichardt, was chaotic and the absurd conduct of both the Speaker and the majority of councillors raises the question whether they are in fact fit to fill the roles assigned to them.

Mr Joubert said some of the councillors sang during the meeting "Awulethu Umshini wami" (bring my machine gun).

"How is it possible that, in a democratic country, such absurd behaviour is tolerated? The question can be asked whether such councillors can be regarded as fit to rule? Is the Speaker in control of the council? The Speaker is either not in control or she fully supports what seems to be a declaration of war," Joubert said.

With regards to the singing of this controversial and bellicose song during what was supposed to be the official discussion of the name change issue, Joubert said the Human Rights Commission (HRC) will be asked to investigate a case of hate speech. He said this case will be a test for their ability to fulfil the role as stipulated in the Constitution.

Joubert said all groups in South Africa have the protection of the Constitution. Hate speech has no place in a democratic country. He praised the few councillors who behaved in a dignified way – as could be expected of elected representatives of people.

Joubert said it is now time for the community to establish constitutionally obedient structures as it seems as if communities must take their future into their own hands, especially in the light of the fact that the same councillors who made themselves guilty of unruly behaviour in an open council meeting had allocated themselves a 64% allowance increase in the 2007/8 budget.

"It is the duty of councillors to build a dignified, democratic South Africa and to prevent a second Somalia and Zimbabwe. No life is possible in a country ruled by anarchy, disrespect and lawlessness. The secret of democracy lies in the principles that guide decisions. The meaning of democracy is to allow maximum representation," Joubert said.