A leader's skin colour a determining factor for some DA supporters
Some DA supporters told Eyewitness News that they were rallying behind the party because they believed that a white-led government produced results.
The Democratic Alliance’s (DA) KwaZulu-Natal Rescue South Africa tour campaign at the Currie Stadium in Durban on 11 May 2024. Picture: Xanderleigh Dookey Makhaza/Eyewitness News
JOHANNESBURG - The Democratic Alliance (DA) is seemingly facing challenges convincing some of its supporters that the party is a non-racial organisation.
Thousands of people attended the organisation’s final election rally at the Willowmoore Stadium in Benoni on Sunday.
Several DA supporters told Eyewitness News they decided to rally behind the party because they prefer white leaders at the helm of government.
In 2020, the DA adopted the principle of non-racialism at its policy conference, urging all its members to deconstruct social norms surrounding skin colour.
But four years later, it seems some of its supporters are yet to endorse the principle.
Richard Madiseng, a Braamfischer resident, explained why he opted for the blue party.
“White people maintained the government for many years, and if they say they want to do something, they will do it.”
Another DA supporter echoed his sentiments.
“I’m definitely sure the DA can give my children jobs. What I remember is that before the DA, there were white people, and the jobs were there.
Meanwhile, DA leader John Steenhuisen reiterated that the party did not see colour.