Zille’s ambitious bid to be Joburg’s next mayor faces fierce opposition

THE political landscape in South Africa's economic hub is becoming increasingly tense as Helen Zille, the Federal Council chairperson of the Democratic Alliance (DA), considers a bid to become the next mayor of Joburg.

- THABO MAKWAKWA

Zille confirmed she has been approached as the DAs candidate and is currently weighing her options. However, her potential candidacy faces mounting opposition from other political parties and critics who label her as “toxic” to work with.

While she has been credited with strengthening the DAs PR image and appealing to middle-class voters, critics argue her record on racial issues and her relationships with black leaders have been problematic.

Independent political analyst Joe Mhlanga points out that her path to becoming mayor will likely be complicated.

“Her chances will depend heavily on whether she can secure support from the ANC,” Mhlanga explains.

“The ANC has shown some willingness to work with the DA in other regions, but that’s unlikely to happen easily in Johannesburg.”

Adding to the challenges, the opposition is vocally against Zille’s bid. Herman Mashaba, leader of ActionSA and a former Johannesburg mayor, quickly criticised her candidacy.