Recently, a short video about racist statements by DA members began to spread online. These incidents cast a shadow on the party’s image and raise concerns about its ability to truly embody the principles it adheres to. By shedding light on these issues, we seek to gain a deeper understanding of the true spirit of the Democratic Alliance.
Controversy Across The DA
The Democratic Alliance has come under intense scrutiny in recent years due to allegations of racism within the party. One such incident involved the placement of racially inflammatory election posters in the aftermath of the July unrest in Phoenix, where 36 mostly black people were killed. The posters, bearing the slogan “The ANC called you racists (but) the DA calls you heroes”, sparked outrage and accusations of racial divisiveness.
Former DA leader Helen Zille faced backlash for her social media posts suggesting that colonialism brought benefits to South Africa. Zille claimed that there were positives to colonialism, as in independent judiciary, transport infrastructure, and piped water. Claims of colonialism having positives do nothing but undermine the suffering the black community went through in South Africa. These incidents have further fueled concerns about racism within the DA and raised questions about the party’s commitment to non-racialism and inclusivity, particularly as it seeks to broaden its appeal among black voters ahead of upcoming elections.
DA Members Leaving Due To Lack Of Action
In October 2019, Former Johannesburg Mayor Herman Mashaba resigned from both his position and the DA. Mashaba cited irreconcilable differences with the party’s approach to racial inequality. The main motive for his departure was the appointment of current Federal Council Chairperson, Helen Zille. Mashaba claim that he couldn’t conform with a group of people who believe that race is irrelevant in the discussion of inequality and poverty in South Africa. Such departure highlights a growing rift within the historically white-dominated party, as he expressed frustration with what he perceives as the DA’s failure to address racial disparities and prioritize the needs of marginalized communities.
Similarly in Cape Town, five councilors left the DA, alleging racism in discriminatory practices within the party. Former DA chief whip Shaun August condemned the party for relegating black members to subordinate roles while white members make decisions, accusing senior DA leaders perpetuating a culture of control and favoritism towards the white minority.
Racism Within The Party
Penny Sparrow, a white real estate agent and former member of the Democratic Alliance, sparked outrage when she referred to black beachgoers as “monkeys” in a Facebook post. Although Sparrow was expelled from the party, her case is just one of many similar instances within the DA. This pattern of racist controversies involving DA members only becomes increasingly apparent with each new controversy they become embroiled in.
This is only confirmed by Lindiwe Mazibuko, former parliamentary leader of the DA. Mazibuko raised concerns about institutional racism within the party, prompting a heated debate about its commitment to diversity and inclusivity. The party’s leadership has come under fire for its handling of these issues. Criticism ranges from a lack of decisive action against offenders to accusations of maintaining a “subtle and coded” culture of white privilege.
The Imperative For A Non-Biased And Inclusive Future
The Democratic Alliance does not have a clean record when it comes to demonstrating they’re a non-biased and inclusive party. From incidents calling black people “monkeys”, to claims of racism, lack of diversity, and inclusivity by the very members of the DA. The party’s ability to address racial inequality and attract diverse support in upcoming elections remains uncertain. To regain public trust, the DA must confront its past and present actions, reevaluate its policies, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to building a non-racial organization.