Ngizwe Mchunu disowned by JAC Motors following anti-LGBTQIA+ remarks

Ngizwe Mchunu disowned by JAC Motors following anti-LGBTQIA+ remarks

Zuko Komisa

• JAC Motors South Africa has publicly disowned former brand ambassador Ngizwe Mchunu and condemned his recent homophobic remarks, clarifying their ambassadorship deal ended in 2023.
• The automotive company asserted that Mchunu’s “derogatory” statements are contrary to their core values of respect, inclusivity, and equality for all.
• The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) is now investigating multiple complaints to determine if Mchunu’s comments constitute hate speech or unlawful discrimination.

JAC Motors South Africa has swiftly condemned and disassociated itself from Ngizwe Mchunu, its former brand ambassador, following widespread backlash over his controversial anti-LGBTQIA+ remarks.

The automotive company issued a strong statement on social media, clarifying that Mchunu’s ambassadorship deal concluded in 2023 and that he no longer represents the brand.

The company emphatically stated that Mchunu’s views are directly opposed to their corporate values.

“JAC Motors South Africa and JAC Halfway categorically denounce and distance ourselves from any and all derogatory or discriminatory statements made by Mr Mchunu,” the statement read, adding:

“We remain committed to fostering an environment of respect, inclusivity and equality for all.”

Mchunu’s open vow to “discriminate” against the LGBTQIA+ community led to calls from activists for brands to sever ties, with tensions escalating over the weekend when he was reportedly removed from a Johannesburg market amid disorder.