In a concerning display of insensitivity, Sharon Sabbagh, a councillor from the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Knysna, is embroiled in controversy after an alleged remark made during a council meeting. The incident, which occurred at the end of March during a special finance and governance committee sitting, involved Sabbagh reportedly referring to the proceedings as a “monkey circus.” The comment was captured in a video that has since circulated widely on social media platforms like TikTok, provoking public outrage and calls for accountability.
Sabbagh’s comment came amidst a chaotic exchange with opposition parties, leading to her frustration and the unfortunate choice of words. When confronted, she denied targeting anyone specifically, stating, “I did not call anybody a monkey; if they feel offended, then it’s because they are one.” However, she later issued a reluctant apology to move the meeting forward.
The DA’s response was one of defence, attributing the backlash to a misunderstanding of Sabbagh’s words. Dion George, the DA political head in the Knysna Constituency, suggested that the remarks were being used to distract from the coalition’s alleged failures in service delivery, particularly to lower-income communities. However, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the Western Cape did not accept this explanation, demanding Sabbagh’s immediate removal and condemning her behaviour as an extension of systemic racism. The EFF has called on the South African Human Rights Commission to investigate and plans to press charges, highlighting the incident as an attack on the dignity of black individuals.
Since the incident, the online community has voiced their discontent, culminating in widespread protests. The hashtag #stopDAracism became a rallying cry, amassing significant traction on social media. The tangible unrest spilled onto the streets, with protesters demanding direct responses from DA leader John Steenhuisen.
Protestors carried signs bearing stark messages. One reads “STOP SABBAGH!” while another criticizes a person named Steenhuisen, asking for an answer for the “Monkey Circus.” The crowd appears animated and is evidently protesting in response to the ‘monkey circus’ remark by DA councillor Sharon Sabbagh. The tweet accompanying this image uses the hashtag #stopDAracism, expressing disapproval of the councillor’s actions and linking them to the broader issue of racism within the DA. Each poster reflects a community’s hurt and demand for change.
While others like in the post below holding up a sign stating, “IS A RACIST PARTY!” which is cut off at the top, possibly saying “THE DA IS A RACIST PARTY!” In the background, another sign is visible that reads “NEVER COMPARE ANYONE WITH MONKEYS,” which is a direct reference to the incident involving the DA councillor. The tweet that this image accompanies comments on the extent of racism in the party, again using the hashtag #stopDAracism, signaling that the sentiment of racism being present in the DA is shared by the poster.
The calls for accountability extend beyond mere social media outcry. The presence of these demonstrations and their representation online through various posts shows a nation’s collective frustration and the pressure on the DA for transparent answers.
While the DA remains mostly silent, the voices of dissent grow louder, reflecting a society’s refusal to tolerate racial insensitivity. The people are watching, waiting, and expecting the DA to step forward with more than justifications they demand sincere action and change. This moment is a test for the DA, one that could define their standing in the eyes of the public and their place in South Africa’s future.