Grammy-winner Chris Brown’s scheduled concert in South Africa has reignited discussions about the country’s high rates of violence against women, with activists arguing the performance sends the wrong message given the artist’s history of abuse.

Brown’s concert at Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium, Africa’s largest with over 94,000 seats, sold out within two hours, prompting the addition of a second December date. However, the overwhelming demand has been met with significant backlash.

Sabina Walter, executive director of Women for Change, expressed shock and disappointment at Brown’s upcoming performance. The organization has launched a petition, currently with over 20,000 signatures, to prevent Brown from performing.

South Africa grapples with one of the world’s highest rates of femicide and gender-based violence, with a rape reported approximately every 12 minutes. Activists argue that platforming an artist with Brown’s history sends a damaging message in a country where gender-based violence is at crisis levels.

Brown’s most notorious incident involved a 2009 domestic dispute with singer Rihanna, resulting in his guilty plea to assault charges. He has faced subsequent accusations of violence from other individuals.

The controversy has sparked debate about the balance between artistic appreciation and social responsibility. Former University of Cape Town vice-chancellor Prof Mamokgethi Phakeng defended her decision to attend the concert, arguing that enjoying music doesn’t equate to endorsing an artist’s past actions.

Despite the outcry, many South African fans remain enthusiastic about Brown’s performance. Some have expressed willingness to go to great lengths to attend, highlighting the complex relationship between fandom and social issues.

As the concert approaches, it continues to serve as a focal point for broader discussions about gender-based violence, celebrity accountability, and societal values in South Africa.