The ANC Women’s League has strongly condemned the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) decision to nominate Helen Zille as its Johannesburg mayoral candidate. The League called the move “astounding” and “deeply hypocritical,” igniting fierce political debate ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
ANC Women’s League Slams Helen Zille: Strong Words of Condemnation
In a statement, the ANC Women’s League accused Zille of having a track record of exclusionary governance. It highlighted her past remarks and service delivery failures as reasons she is unfit to lead Johannesburg.
The League declared:
“The only proven track record to be attributed to the DA is its inherent disregard for transformation, and its political conviction remains that of the protection of White privilege and supremacy.”
By placing transformation at the heart of its criticism, the ANCWL positioned the DA’s decision as a rejection of inclusivity.
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Zille’s Controversial Past Resurfaces
Helen Zille has faced controversy before. In 2012, while serving as Western Cape Premier, she referred to Eastern Cape migrants as “refugees.”
The ANCWL described this as a “slap in the face to constitutional democracy.” It said the remark confirmed what it sees as the DA’s policy of exclusionism.
“These utterances not only undermined the compass of our constitutional democracy but confirmed the DA policy of exclusionism, which is characterised by prejudice and collective hatred for Black people,” the League said.
This criticism aligns with long-standing debates about race and representation in South African politics.
Service Delivery Record Under Scrutiny
The Women’s League also questioned Zille’s legacy in the Western Cape. It pointed to communities such as Du Noon and Blikkiesdorp as evidence of failures under her leadership.
“Infrastructure like water, electricity, and road maintenance cannot be promised by someone who has failed to deliver the same in historically marginalised areas,” the League stated.
Analysts have also warned that Johannesburg faces overwhelming financial and infrastructure challenges. Political commentator Piet Croucamp told Joburg ETC that fixing the city’s water system alone could cost R200 billion.
This raises serious questions about whether any mayoral candidate can realistically deliver on promises in Johannesburg’s current state.
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Broader Political Implications Ahead of 2026
The DA announced Zille’s candidacy to position itself strongly in Johannesburg, South Africa’s economic hub. Yet, the ANC Women’s League sees this as a provocative choice that undermines inclusivity and transformation.
The battle for Johannesburg is set to intensify as coalitions remain unstable. Political analysts argue that Zille’s polarising figure may make coalition-building even harder.
This contest is more than about who governs Johannesburg. It is about which party can best address inequality, service delivery, and social cohesion.
Reactions from Other Parties and Experts
Criticism of Zille has not come from the ANCWL alone. ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba said the DA’s choice reflected a lack of confidence in Black leaders. He noted:
“It is deeply concerning that Helen and the DA think they cannot find a single black person in this province to take over this responsibility”.
The EFF also attacked her candidacy, calling Zille “tired and frail”.
This chorus of opposition suggests that Zille’s nomination has already reshaped Johannesburg’s political battlefield.
DA’s Defence of Helen Zille
The Democratic Alliance, however, believes Zille is the right candidate. The party argues her experience as former Cape Town mayor and Western Cape premier proves she can deliver results.
DA leaders believe Zille brings political capital and national recognition, which could strengthen their chances in Johannesburg.
Still, her nomination has widened divisions over whether experience outweighs the need for transformation and inclusivity.
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A Political Flashpoint in Johannesburg
The ANC Women’s League has made it clear that it views Helen Zille’s candidacy as both offensive and politically dangerous. By highlighting her past remarks, her governance record, and the DA’s perceived lack of transformation, the League has sharpened the battle lines in Johannesburg.
As the 2026 elections approach, the issue is likely to grow louder. Johannesburg’s residents will ultimately decide whether Zille’s experience is enough to overcome the criticisms of exclusion, privilege, and failed service delivery.
