Unathi apologises after Twitter rant
Metro FM DJ and Idols judge, Unathi Msengana was suspended after directly messaging a Twitter user and allegedly using offensive language.
Msengana had lashed out at the user who criticized her over comments she made on air related to Stellenbosch University's language policy.
“You cannot say that they said Afrikaans wouldn’t [be an issue]. How do we fight for you. That’s my point. Be fair guys. I know it hurts,” the DJ said on air.
Thereafter, the hashtag #unathibelike soon trended on Twitter.
Student group, Open Stellenbosch released a video, titled Luister, of 32 black students sharing their stories of racial prejudice at the institution and surrounds. The students and a lecturer also address the language barrier experienced at the university.
See Stellenbosch University's response to the video.
In the statement issued today, she says she apologises for her choice of words in the matter.
Read the statement below:
Two days ago, on radio, I expressed an opinion on the language policy at Stellenbosch University. Thereafter my opinion became the subject of a Twitter debate. Unfortunately some of the subsequent commentary criticised me in ways that I felt badly violated my personal life and my personal beliefs.
To be cast as an advocate for rape, gender inequality and homophobia when I am passionate about ending these social ills, was extremely shocking. As a result, in what I have come to realise was a bad attempt to defend myself, I reacted by engaging directly with a Twitter follower. However, as upset as I was at that time, I should not have used offensive language. I therefore wish to publicly apologise for my choice in language. Going forward, whilst l refuse to be bullied on Twitter about my opinions, I will exercise better judgment when using this platform. I thank those who have supported me.
In case you missed it, see Luister below.
(File photo: Instagram)