The South African rap scene is once again at the center of controversy. Rising star David Manda, better known as BabyDaiz, is under investigation by the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) over his track Allez Tobina, which allegedly contains racial slurs. The move has reignited a national debate about freedom of speech, artistic accountability, and whether rappers should face censorship in 2025.
The controversy has the streets buzzing and conversations heating up on radio stations like YFM and 5FM, with fans and industry insiders split over whether BabyDaiz crossed a line or if the investigation is a crackdown on hip-hop culture.
Industry veteran Slikour jumped to the young rapper’s defense during an interview on YFM, stating:
“It’s unfortunate that the younger generation is paying the price for the country’s inability to invest in its heritage and history, like other countries such as Germany.”
Slikour’s comments raise important questions about South Africa’s role in empowering youth through culture and history, rather than punishing them for expressing it.
The debate draws parallels to the struggles of Prophets of Da City (POC). Their 1993 politically charged album Age of Truth saw 15 out of 21 tracks banned on SABC radio under apartheid. While the regime tried to silence them, POC’s music became a soundtrack of resistance, inspiring generations to speak out through hip-hop.
Now, with the SAHRC investigating BabyDaiz under the Equality Act, fans are asking: are we witnessing history repeat itself? Is the younger generation being unfairly targeted, or is the commission simply protecting equality?
Mzansi rap fans remain divided. Some argue that BabyDaiz’s lyrics went too far, while others insist that censorship stifles creativity and threatens the rebellious spirit that defines hip-hop culture.
The real question remains: is the SAHRC safeguarding equality, or is this yet another attempt to silence South African hip-hop?
Stay tuned to SAHipHop247 for updates on this story.
The post Should South African Rappers Be Censored in 2025? BabyDaiz vs SAHRC Sparks Heated Debate appeared first on SAHipHop247.
