Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture in the Republic of South Africa, Gayton McKenzie, says he is waiting for the response of South Africa National Men’s Football Team head coach Hugo Broos over reported racist comments he made towards South Africa player Mbekezeli Mbokazi.
Broos has come under serious criticism for making the alleged comments towards the 20 year old Mbokazi following the latter’s surprise move from Orlando Pirates to Major League Soccer (MLS) side Chicago Fire FC.
Belgian trainer Broos was angered by the timing and location of Mbokazi’s move and his subsequent late arrival to camp ahead of the AFCON prompting him to say, “I can assure you: he (Mbokazi) is a black guy, but he will get out of my room as a white guy” according to ESPN.
This statement has led to a major uproar in South Africa where racial issues are very sensitive with a political party, the United Democratic Movement (UDM), releasing a statement that condemned Broos’ statement.
UDM has reported Hugo Broos to the South African Human Rights Commission over the issue and also called for an investigation into the issue according to ENCA.
The development has prompted South Africa’s Sports Minister to request a response from Hugo Broos stating on his X page,
“I’m awaiting the response from SAFA- South African Football Association-& Hugo Broos before I comment. The comments made by the coach requires clarification as it is open to any interpretation currently.”
The ongoing controversy threatens to derail South Africa’s campaign at the 2025 AFCON; the Bafana Bafana are in Group B with Angola, Zimbabwe and Egypt.
