South Africa’s Deputy Education Minister has issued an apology after admitting he assaulted a woman in a nightclub.

Mduduzi Manana has admitted that he slapped a woman in the face after she called him “gay”. The assault took place after an argument broke out in a Johannesburg nightclub.

The MP has apologised for his actions describing it as “a shameful incident”. The politician said he had been provoked, but should have shown more restraint.

The incident was captured on video and witnessed by journalists who were in the nightclub. It has been reported that the argument broke out over a difference of opinion on who should be South Africa’s next President.

Police are now investigating the matter. President Joseph Zuma said the incident was “disturbing”.

“The South African Government has made violence against women a priority crime. Women have a right to safety and security and must not be attacked or abused by anyone, anywhere in the country, regardless of the position of the either the perpetrator or victim. South Africa must be safe for all women,” said President Zuma.

OIP Staff