Author Jackie Phamotse has spoken out regarding the controversy surrounding Chris Brown’s upcoming performance in South Africa, addressing concerns over his violent past.
The American singer is set to perform at Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium on December 14 and 15.
While tickets for the first show have sold out, the event has sparked widespread debate due to Brown's history of gender-based violence (GBV).
In a video shared on social media, Phamotse urged people to consider the possibility of rehabilitation while acknowledging Brown’s violent past, including his 2009 conviction for assaulting his then-girlfriend, Rihanna.
“We're talking about something that happened 10, 12 years ago. And, yes, the other things that happened after Rihanna were probably 8 or 5 years ago. I understand that. However, rehabilitation takes course over a period of time.”
Phamotse highlighted society’s role in helping individuals rebuild after their mistakes, adding, “if we if we all sit here on our high horses and say, Chris Brown can't come to South Africa because he's got a history of the abuse. Yes. It is true. He did not deny it. However, he's not at risk in terms of abusing women.”
Author Jackie Phamotse has defended Chris Brown in light of a petition calling for the cancellation of his upcoming concerts in South Africa, which was initiated by Women For Change due to his history of domestic abuse. pic.twitter.com/6FW9wrKDWP
— MDN NEWS (@MDNnewss) October 9, 2024
Despite her stance on rehabilitation, Phamotse made it clear in a follow-up post that she does not excuse Brown’s past actions and would not attend the concert herself.
“I support survivors and victims of GBV and believe in their right to justice.I do not condone or excuse Chris Brown's past actions or behaviour.” she wrote.
She also emphasised the need for accountability and consequences, stating, “If new evidence emerges of ongoing abuse, I demand swift legal action.“
Her comments come amid growing calls within South Africa to cancel Brown’s concert. Several organisations, including Women of Change, have urged concert promoters to rethink the event and are calling for authorities to stop Brown from performing.
There have even been calls for Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber to revoke Brown’s visa.
Phamotse is not alone in her careful approach to the issue. Former University of Cape Town Vice-Chancellor Mamokgethi Phakeng has also defended her choice to attend the concert.
She argued that supporting Chris Brown's music does not mean approving of his past behaviour.
Phakeng criticised cancel culture and made it clear that she opposes GBV, but she also pointed out the difference between an artist and their work.
Phamotse, meanwhile, has faced legal issues of her own. The “Bare” author is currently serving two years under house arrest after being convicted of defaming media moguls Romeo and Basetsana Kumalo in a six-year court battle.
The case involved a tweet Phamotse posted in 2018, accusing Romeo Kumalo of engaging in a sexual encounter with another man.
IOL