eThekwini Municipality has condemned a racist remark made during a full council meeting on Wednesday.
During the meeting held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre, a councillor was told to “Go back to Bombay.”
In a statement, the City said the incident occurred during a debate on a monument honouring the 1860 Indentured Indians, where an offensive remark, "you must go to Bombay," was reportedly directed towards a councillor.
eThekwini Municipality’s Speaker of Council, Councillor Thabani Nyawose, has strongly condemned the racist remark.
"This is unacceptable, as there is no room for racism in the council or in our country at large."
The Speaker further assured that a thorough investigation would be conducted to identify the individual responsible for this divisive behaviour.
"I will investigate this unfortunate incident to find the culprit, and we will not hesitate to take serious action against any councillor who breaks the rules.“
The City said it remained committed to upholding values of respect, inclusivity, and unity in all Council proceedings.
At the meeting, the Democratic Alliance said that the failure to commission the 1860 monument has shown contempt for the Indian community, the Mercury reported.
DA councillor Yogis Govender addressed concerns following revelations that the provincial government will now take over the processes related to the building of the monument.
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