South Africans are divided over a new advertisement by the Democratic Alliance (DA) that features the South African flag burning with a warning about a potential coalition between the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and former president Jacob Zuma.
While some have criticized the ad as disrespectful to the national symbol, DA MP Leon Schreiber argues that former Public Protector Thuli Madonsela’s state capture report proves the party’s concerns are not unfounded. Madonsela, however, maintains that the issue is not the message but the desecration of the flag itself.
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Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture of South Africa Zizi Kodwa also expressed his displeasure at the development. Taking to X, he condemns the desecration of the country’s flag.
The South African flag represents our nationhood and the coming together of our people. I condemn in the strongest terms the political advertisement by the @Our_DA which shows the burning of the South African flag.
ANC Secretary General Fikile Mbalule also expressed his disgust;
Desperate Alliance = DA burning a national flag to make a point is totally wrong. We can differ as political parties, but South Africa is our country, our home. Utterly Disgusting !
Political analyst Sanusha Naidu believes that political parties should handle national symbols with more maturity and respect for citizens. The controversy was discussed in a panel debate on eNCA.
