There is a variety of loose and wide minority groups in society who may at some point be offended by someone’s statements; and view them as hate speech. This is the concern raised by the executive director of for SA, Michael Swain. He was responding to the passing of the Prevention and Combating of Hate Crimes and Hate Speech Bill.

It just needs President Cyril Ramaphosa’s signature to become law. Those found guilty under the law could be issued a fine, sentenced to five years in jail or both. But Swain contends that the legislation muzzles people from airing their views, which then prevents debate and education on diverse views.