Zille in hot water over ‘colonialism’ tweets
Western Cape premier Helen Zille has been slapped down by the Democratic Alliance over several tweets that appeared to be defending certain aspects of colonialism – with the former party leader now facing disciplinary action.
In a series of tweets on Thursday, Zille said that people claimed that the legacy of colonialism was only negative, but insisted that there were positive effects as well.
Specifically, the premier said that, thanks to colonialism, South Africa benefited from an independent judiciary, transport infrastructure and other modern social features.
The statements sparked outrage from social media users, who lambasted Zille for ‘defending colonialism’ and implying that native societies would be unable to develop similar or better systems.
Some pointed out that the so-called colonial benefits were not invented or created by the colonists at all, but were invented by other, non-western people.
In response to the furore, DA national spokesperson, Phumzile van Damme said that Zille has been referred to the party’s Federal Legal Commission for investigation.
Zille has already issued an unreserved apology for her tweet.
“Colonialism, like Apartheid, was wrong. It oppressed millions of people and violated human rights in a cruel and inhumane way,” van Damme said.
“Colonialism, like Apartheid, is in every single way against our cherished values of Freedom, Fairness and Opportunity for all.”
“We are a party that stands up for the Constitution, and everything it represents. We want to build a Fair Society where every single South African – no matter the circumstances of their birth – can live a life they truly value.”
Loading ...