South Africa: Jail Time for South African Woman Using Racist Slur Sets New Precedent

analysis

A South African estate agent Vicky Momberg was caught on video verbally abusing a black policeman. She used the word 'kaffirs' repeatedly during her tirade against men who were trying to assist. The word is deeply offensive and considered the most racist in South Africa. The state brought a case of crimen injuria against Momberg and a court has sentenced her to three years in jail (one suspended). This makes her the first person in the country to be jailed for this offence. Thabo Leshilo asked legal experts Penelope Andrews, René Koraan and Chantelle Feldhaus to explain the significance of the judgment.

What is the significance of the judgment?

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