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Helen Zille’s Gaza Comment Sparks Backlash in Joburg Mayoral Bid
A campaign shaken by controversy
Helen Zille’s run for Johannesburg mayor has been thrust into the spotlight after she avoided labelling Israel’s actions in Gaza as genocide. In a Newzroom Afrika interview, the Democratic Alliance candidate said, “Genocide is a very big word and I haven’t been to Gaza, and I don’t know.”
Her hesitation comes as global rights groups and governments describe Gaza’s destruction and mass civilian deaths as genocide. Zille added that Hamas had used its energy trying to “obliterate the state of Israel,” a remark that many saw as reinforcing her party’s position on the conflict.
Analysts weigh in
Political analyst Siyabonga Ntombela noted that Zille’s words reflect the DA’s consistent support of Israel, even within the Government of National Unity alongside pro-Palestine allies. He argued that recent political events, from DA-linked visits to the United States to reports of Israeli flights into Cape Town, could strengthen her appeal in Johannesburg.
Opposition parties react
Rivals across the political spectrum condemned Zille’s comment. Rise Mzansi’s spokesperson Mabine Seabe said, “Anyone with eyes, ears and a heart for humanity acknowledges that a genocide is being committed.” He warned voters to consider if such views reflect the leadership Johannesburg needs.
The EFF’s Nqobile Mhlongo accused the DA of repeatedly siding with Israel, recalling its vote against cutting diplomatic ties during the 6th Parliament and DA leader John Steenhuisen’s public defence of Israel. She said Zille’s remark showed the DA siding with the oppressor at the expense of the oppressed.
ActionSA’s Matthew George criticised the phrasing as evasive, saying it was a “puzzling dodge of the question” and noting drily that the word ‘genocide’ “is in fact only eight letters.”
Local politics meets global conflict
Zille’s candidacy already signalled a dramatic turn in Johannesburg politics. Her comment has now tied the race to a global crisis, making Gaza part of the local debate. For Joburg residents, the issue is about more than foreign policy. It is about values, morality, and whether their next mayor should take a clear stance on human rights.
With service delivery still the city’s biggest challenge, Zille must balance local issues with the weight of global politics. Whether her words weaken her or rally her base, one fact is clear: Gaza is now on the ballot in Johannesburg’s mayoral race.
Also read: Operation Dudula’s School Campaign Sparks Outrage in Gauteng
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Source: IOL
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