SAJBD slams appointment of Thapelo Amad as Joburg MMC

The South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) has slammed the appointment of Thapelo Amad as MMC for Community Development in the Johannesburg city council.

It said the appointment sends a troubling message to Johannesburg residents, that violence and hate speech are acceptable.

Two years ago, Amad took to social media to show his support for Hamas and posted a photo of himself carrying a rifle.

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) ruled that his posts crossed the line from political expression to unlawful hate speech.

SAJBD spokesperson Charisse Zeifert said the appointment was appalling.

"For the City of Joburg to appoint someone guilty of hate speech and someone who has refused to adhere to their ruling is appalling. The role of MMC for community development requires a person who adheres to the values of communal respect, social cohesion and the protection of all residents regardless of their background."