The Palestine Solidarity Campaign (PSC) and Mothers4Gaza have voiced their discontent after the management of the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden announced that David Scott (The Kiffness), a South African musician and parody artist, is set to perform at Kirstenbosch Gardens.
Scott faces backlash for his allegedly racist and prejudiced remarks regarding the Palestinian struggle. Civil rights organizations expressed that SANBI’s selection of a “pro-Israel public figure” to headline an annual inclusive concert at Kirstenbosch diverges from the institute’s principles of Ubuntu, growth, respect, tolerance, excellence, and accountability.
“We are concerned that an entity of government has selected this musician to perform at an event which traditionally brings all South Africans and Capetonians together in celebrating the festive season in a way that authentically advances and reflects social cohesion,” stated the PSC.
“While Scott is entitled to freedom of speech under our constitution, he is an outspoken defender of military action against the people of Gaza. In addition, he is a defiant racist who peddles his unconstitutional and hurtful views on social media. This is not an artist who can bring people together. His currency is prejudice, division, and insensitivity,” emphasised the PSC.
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