FlySafair Incident: SABC Brand Manager Sparks Controversy with Racial Remarks

Deputy president of Patriotic Alliance Kenny Kunene (left) alongside SABC brand manager Nobuntu Mkhize, who is at the centre of the Flysafair saga.
image:Central News.

As the festive season draws to an end, an incident on a FlySafair flight has sparked widespread debate, with many questioning the conduct of those in public positions, which has created havoc. On December 26, during a routine flight from Durban to Cape Town, Nobuntu Mkhize, who is employed as an SABC brand manager, allegedly made racially insensitive remarks and caused a scene after being denied additional alcohol.

The flight, which departed as scheduled, carried passengers who were as eager as the rest of the country to enjoy the holiday season. However, halfway through the journey, a misunderstanding ensued between Mkhize and the cabin crew members. In a video that has since gone viral, she is seen engaging in a heated argument after her request for more drinks was denied. This is when the situation escalated, with Mkhize allegedly making remarks that many found offensive.

Among the comments reportedly made, Mkhize targeted a flight attendant whom she accused of not having a car in spite of the gold rings she had. She apparently threatened to use her position at the SABC to publicize the incident, referring to herself as “an ANC b*tch” in the process.

The political party Patriotic Alliance condemned her remarks, calling them divisive and hurtful to the Coloured community. Kenny Kunene, the party’s Deputy President, highlighted the obvious contrast between Mkhize’s comments and the unity South Africa’s constitution seeks to promote. He also stated how such behavior dishonored the legacy of Mkhize’s late father, Khaba Mkhize, who was known for his commitment to reconciliation.

On the other hand, the South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that Mkhize was arrested and charged under the Civil Aviation Act for disruptive behavior. The captain of the flight reported her as a passenger displaying riotous conduct. Upon landing in Cape Town, the confrontation reportedly continued. Though initial charges were withdrawn pending further investigation, authorities are considering additional charges, including assault and intentionally impairing the dignity of the cabin crew.

In her defense, Mkhize denied being intoxicated, claiming she had consumed only one drink prior to boarding. She argued that the situation escalated unnecessarily after her request for a drink was denied.

The SABC, confirming that Mkhize was their employee, has indicated that they will use their internal structures to deal with the matter. In the same way, the ANC has expressed concern and announced its intent to investigate her standing in the party because of her controversial remarks.

The above incident serves as a reminder of the responsibilities borne by public figures and the need for respectful conduct in all spheres of public appearance. The head of the Patriotic Alliance’s Coloured community desk stated that: “Racism has no place in South Africa.”

For now, Mkhize faces the dual challenge of legal proceedings and public scrutiny, while South Africans reflect on the broader issues of unity and accountability that this incident has brought to light.