TENDAI MBANJE & BELINDA MATORE | Zanzou incident reveals culture of violation of human rights in nightclubs

The leaked videos showcasing extreme violence, torture and inhumane and degrading treatment allegedly perpetrated by Zanzou’s club bouncers have sparked outrage among South African citizens and the international community.

The highly graphic footage, circulating widely on social media, depict severe human rights violations, including acts tantamount to torture, kidnapping, sexual assault and attempted murder. Several men are seen hogtied, naked and bound; an alarming display of brutality against patrons who reportedly failed to settle their bills and were allegedly stealing phones.

While police investigate various offences linked to these incidents, human rights groups have raised concerns that this is not an isolated case. Rather, it reflects a broader culture of human rights violations in South Africa's nightclub industry, where the right to dignity and bodily integrity is frequently violated. This incident has ignited crucial conversations about what happens behind the scenes in South African society and the unchecked power dynamics within these establishments.

Some have drawn comparisons between the explicit videos and scenes from the era of slavery and colonialism. It is deeply troubling that South African society continues to grapple with fundamental human rights issues such as the violation of bodily integrity and dignity; principles enshrined both in law and morality.

Though the exposure of these videos may help ensure accountability and the pursuit of justice, it is vital to acknowledge that the human rights of those involved have been severely violated

These rights are protected under South Africa's constitution, which explicitly prohibits acts of torture and inhumane and degrading treatment. There can be no justification for such atrocities under any circumstances.

Beyond the legal ramifications, the incident raises pressing ethical concerns about the responsibilities of business owners in the nightclub industry. The pursuit of profit cannot come at the expense of fundamental human rights. This case challenges South African society to reflect on both historical and present-day human rights violations, particularly in the nightlife sector. Many citizens believe that the Zanzou incident is a stark revelation of a widespread culture of abuse in the country’s nightclubs.

On the other hand, beyond the violent assaults captured in the videos, another concerning issue is how waitresses in such establishments are required to dress, seemingly to appeal to a specific clientele. While this may not immediately appear to be a serious violation, it signals deeper systemic concerns regarding the objectification of women. Such environments not only normalise the sexualisation of women but also expose them to heightened risks of harassment, exploitation and degrading treatment.

Though the exposure of these videos may help ensure accountability and the pursuit of justice, it is vital to acknowledge that the human rights of those involved have been severely violated. The public circulation of such content worsens their trauma, subjecting them to further humiliation and emotional distress. The long-term psychological impact of having these deeply personal violations displayed in the public domain is profoundly scarring. Justice must therefore be pursued in a manner that prioritises the dignity, protection and wellbeing of the survivors.

In response, there are growing calls for the South African government to take decisive action. Human rights advocates are urging authorities to launch an independent and impartial investigation into the pervasive violations occurring within nightclubs, ensuring that justice is served and systemic change is enacted.

• Mbanje and Matore are human rights experts from the University of Pretoria. 

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