SAHRC refutes circulating social media rumours
The SAHRC has acted to refute social media rumours that most of its staff are foreign nationals.
The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has denied social media rumours claiming that most of its staff are foreign nationals.
The rumours spread following a media briefing on 9 September 2025, where the commission discussed the state of human rights in South Africa.
SAHRC DENIES SOCIAL MEDIA RUMOURS
In a statement released on 16 September 2025, the SAHRC called the social media rumours false.
The commission confirmed that only seven of its 169 staff members are foreign nationals, and just one of its 16 senior managers is not South African.
THE BIRTH OF THE SOCIAL MEDIA RUMOURS
To provide context, the commission publicly launched four reports highlighting its work and human rights issues across the country.
Some X users questioned the nationality of the panel members, particularly targeting Head of Research Dr Martin Nsibirwa.
The commission emphasised its constitutional mandate to protect and promote human rights for everyone in South Africa, regardless of nationality.
Criticism was also fueled by the commission’s opposition to Operation Dudula’s efforts to deny undocumented individuals access to healthcare.
SAHRC Commissioner Professor Tshepo Madlingozi emphasised this by calling on National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola to intervene and stop Operation Dudula.
“We were very clear that it is unlawful for any citizen or anyone to try and enforce immigration law,” said Madlingozi. He further stated that no one is allowed to play the Department of Home Affairs role.
CONTEXT OF THE HUMAN RIGHTS REPORTS
The reports highlighted the commission’s work, including trends in human rights complaints, recommendations, and analysis of developments.
The commission reported receiving 7 516 complaints, monitoring 1 394 cases, and conducting 3 180 human rights advocacy activities.
It found that most complaints concerned economic and social rights, including healthcare, food, water, and social security.
The commission also noted that race-related complaints topped the list.
SAHRC SETS THE RECORD STRAIGHT ON INTERESTS
The organisation reiterated its focus on addressing systemic barriers to basic rights.
It added that the false social media claims aim to distract the public from urgent challenges.