- Gayton McKenzie defended the inclusion of ‘Die Stem’ in the national anthem.
- The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) called for the removal of ‘Die Stem’ from the anthem.
- Public reactions to McKenzie’s statements were highly critical.
Sport, Arts, and Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie faced backlash after defending the inclusion of ‘Die Stem’ in the national anthem during a recent debate.
Watch: Gayton McKenzie defends ‘Die Stem’ anthem
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McKenzie defended the national anthem amid calls from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) to remove the ‘Die Stem’ portion.
The sports minister suggested that those who disrespect the anthem should face similar consequences as those who desecrate the national flag.
He criticised the EFF for refusing to stand when ‘Die Stem’ is sung, urging them to accept that white people are part of South Africa.
During a debate on the budget of the Sport, Arts, and Culture Department, EFF MP Fana Mokoena argued that it was inconsistent to replace the old South African flag but retain parts of the former anthem.
McKenzie countered by saying that reconciliation requires sacrifices and accused the EFF of showboating.
Watch the tense interaction below:
What is the history of ‘Die Stem’?
‘Die Stem van Suid-Afrika‘ is a poem written by CJ Langenhoven in May 1918, with music composed by Reverend ML de Villiers in 1921.
It became familiar to the public when the SABC played it alongside ‘God Save the King’ to close daily broadcasts.
It was first sung publicly during the hoisting of the national flag in Cape Town on 31 May 1928 and was officially adopted as the national anthem on 2 May 1957.
In 1959, an Act of Parliament confirmed the government’s acquisition of the copyright.
The anthem, known in English as ‘The Call of South Africa,’ was translated and accepted for official use in 1952.
With the dismantling of apartheid in the early 1990s, South African teams were readmitted to international sporting events, raising questions about national symbols.
Although the anthem was linked to apartheid, agreements with the African National Congress (ANC) allowed ‘Die Stem’ to be sung at events like rugby matches, albeit with controversy.
Despite this, ‘Die Stem’ remained the official anthem and was performed at significant events, including Nelson Mandela’s presidential inauguration in 1994 and the Rugby World Cup final in 1995.
In 1997, ‘Die Stem’ was incorporated into the new national anthem, sharing status with ‘Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika’.
Reactions to McKenzie’s statements
Public reaction to McKenzie’s defence of ‘Die Stem’ was swift and critical.
Many social media users condemned his stance, pointing to the anthem’s association with apartheid.
Critics argued that defending ‘Die Stem’ perpetuates the legacy of apartheid and is insensitive to those who suffered under the regime.
One critic stated:
“Just as language is the custodian of culture and history, ‘Die Stem’ carries the weight of apartheid’s legacy. Singing and defending this apartheid anthem perpetuates the triumphalism of apartheid and dismisses the validity of the experiences of people affected by it.”
Another detractor highlighted McKenzie’s criminal past, saying:
“This man says history is irrelevant and ‘Die Stem’ is no longer a song sung by our colonisers, the same way he wants us to forget that he’s an ex-convicted criminal.”
Despite the backlash, McKenzie stood firm in his position, asserting that South Africa must move forward and embrace its diverse history, including the contentious parts of its national anthem.