Mugg & Bean takes steps against franchise owner for ‘blackface mishap’
Restaurant group Mugg & Bean plans to take action against business owner Russel Kruger for a social media post which went viral earlier this week.
The East London man allegedly posted a picture of his child on Instagram, with the face painted black and the caption: “Using my child to apply for business grants, hope we come right.”
The post led to outrage on Twitter.
I'm not even gonna pretend like I'm shocked at this blatant racism.@Mugg_and_Bean If this man truly is who they say he is, I hope you are dealing with this bottom of the barrel behavior! https://t.co/y1QGe0pKTc
— Zozibini Tunzi (@zozitunzi) April 24, 2020
Mugg & Bean has condemned the remarks, saying the post was in bad taste.
“We are shocked by the conduct of Mr Kruger and we do not condone his actions,” the group said in a statement on Friday. “Although Mr Kruger has explained his intentions have been misunderstood, we find it inexcusable that anyone can claim to be ignorant of the meaning of the image and its damaging effects.
“Mr Kruger will be held accountable for his actions. We are immediately taking the necessary steps to address this with the appropriate action.”
A case of crimen injuria has been opened against him by the EFF in the province.
EFF BCMM NOTES WIYH DISGUST A RACIST INSTAGRAM POST BY ONE EAST LONDON MUGG & BEAN SHAREHOLDER MR RUSSEL KRUGER pic.twitter.com/TvGkBTnSDn
— Economic Freedom Fighters BCMM Region (@BcmmEff) April 25, 2020
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