FlySafair flight feud: SAHRC calls for mutual respect after 'disrespectful' viral video

CAPE TOWN - The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) is calling for mutual respect and valuing of other people's dignity despite one's personal or professional achievements.

The comment comes after an SABC employee was seen in a viral video on social media platforms verbally and physically attacking a flight attendant.

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It’s alleged that she demanded to be served more drinks while flaunting her achievements onboard a flight from Durban to Cape Town last week.

The commission’s chairperson, Chris Nissen, said upholding a non-racial society is a collective responsibility.
 
"It’s not only an issue about race but also an issue about class, and still what we have seen on that flight, that you know we must never ever do anything that will threaten or risk the lives of people on a flight."

He added discriminating against others based on race or class is unacceptable.

"Stop pointing fingers at each other and say, ‘oh you are from Mitchell's Plain, oh you are from Gugulethu, oh you take Uber, oh you this, oh you that’ because human rights are based on the dignity of human beings."

The Democratic Alliance (DA), meanwhile, said it would do all it could to fight racism in the country.  

Law enforcement agencies are investigating the incident, while police have opened a case of assault against the SABC employee.  

DA Western Cape leader Tertius Simmers joined other party representatives on Monday to lay a charge against the woman.  

"The bold, proactive approach by the DA sends a powerful message: racism will not be tolerated. The DA’s values and pillars are fixated on a racism-free society where citizens can thrive and live free from prejudice, abuse, and hatred."