Lex Libertas will inform employers of employees that incite violence and celebrate murder

Lex Libertas Media Statement 16 September 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lex Libertas will inform employers of employees that incite violence and celebrate murder

Pretoria — The think tank and advocacy group Lex Libertas has launched a study into the incitement of violence and the celebration of murder on social media in South Africa. As part of this study, people found to be engaging in such activity will be reported to their employers.

The initiative was prompted by the tragic assassination of American political commentator Charlie Kirk last week, which was followed by a wave of social media users celebrating his death and inciting race-based violence in South Africa. A preliminary investigation by Lex Libertas further indicates that the past week has seen a sharp rise in the glorification of murder, death threats, and the incitement of violence across the country.

Dr Ernst Roets, Executive Director of Lex Libertas, explained that employers have a right to know if their employees are celebrating murder or propagating death threats online. “There should be consequences for the celebration and incitement of violence. Whether disciplinary action is taken is up to employers to decide. Yet appropriate action can only be taken if employers have access to the relevant information,” Dr Roets said.

“Lex Libertas seeks to promote a viable political dispensation for the peoples of South Africa through the decentralisation of the political system and the promotion of self-governance. The success of this pursuit depends on fostering respect and cooperation between communities. This is precisely why we must take a firm stand against anyone who seeks to incite violence and hatred in South Africa.”

The investigation is already under way. Members of the public who wish to submit information in this regard may do so by emailing veldtogte@lexlibertas.org.za.

Lex Libertas is a think tank and advocacy group working towards a viable political dispensation in South Africa, based on the principles of freedom, decentralisation, and self-governance.