MK Party MP David Skosana has ignited a political firestorm after reportedly directing a racial slur at an ActionSA representative during a parliamentary session, prompting the opposition party to file a formal complaint. The incident, described as “deeply offensive” by ActionSA officials, has drawn widespread condemnation and raised questions about conduct within South Africa’s legislative bodies.
During the heated exchange, Skosana allegedly remarked, “I’m not bothered by Europeans,” while addressing an ActionSA MP, referencing their heritage. The comment, which ActionSA labeled as xenophobic, has been reported to parliamentary authorities for disciplinary review. In a statement, ActionSA condemned the remark as “a blatant display of intolerance unbecoming of a public servant.”
This is not Skosana’s first brush with controversy. Past allegations include accusations of threatening the CEO of a Chapter 9 institution in 2024, following disputes over gratuity payments to his wife, former Public Protector Busisiwe Mkhwebane. Earlier reports also linked him to xenophobic social media posts, including rhetoric targeting foreign nationals.
Skosana, who previously criticized the Democratic Alliance-led Western Cape for high extortion rates, has yet to publicly respond to the latest allegations. However, MK Party officials have remained silent on the matter, leaving observers to speculate whether the party will distance itself from his actions.
Public reaction has been swift, with civil society groups calling for stricter accountability in Parliament. “Elected officials must uphold dignity, not peddle division,” said Thandi Gwala, a political analyst. Meanwhile, supporters of the MK Party argue the incident is being “politicized” to undermine their growing influence ahead of local elections.
As the parliamentary inquiry unfolds, the episode underscores broader tensions within South Africa’s political landscape, where accusations of racial insensitivity and misconduct continue to test institutional integrity.