A row over whether a white man qualifies for refugee status in Canada after claims that he was racially abused in South Africa threatens relations between the two countries.

Perpetuates racism

South African, Brandon Huntley, claimed that he was attacked seven times by Africans because of his skin colour. The 31-year-old won his battle for refugee status in Canada based on fears that he could face violent persecution for being white. But South Africa’s ruling African National Congress dismissed his claims as being “sensational and alarming.” The ANC also said that Canada’s decision to grant Huntley refugee status would only “serve to perpetuate racism.”

"White dog"
Huntley claims that as well as being attacked he was stabbed three times by blacks who called him a “white dog” and a “settler” during attempted robberies and muggings. But Huntley never reported the crimes to the police.

South Africa political expert Professor Robert Schrire, from the University of Cape Town, said the case had caused quite a stir.

“Essentially what we are seeing is a very sensitive ANC that perhaps, rather cynically, is using these kind of issues to reinforce its support. And of course the thought of a white Commonwealth country branding South Africa as racist, on perhaps dubious grounds, you can understand must really stick in the throat of some of the true believers in the ANC.”

Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Board said privacy laws prevented them from commenting on the case.
 

Listen to Newsline interview with Professor Robert Schrire :

Watch a commentary by RNW's Senior Political Editor Bernard Hammelburg