In
retrospect there is no doubt that Helen Zille´s tweets were imprudent and
completely unnecessary. But there is equally no doubt that they were not
incorrect with regard to the facts. Nor do they contain any appraisal or exculpation
whatsoever of the former system of oppression as a whole. And as these comments
came from a person rightly renowned as a proven anti-colonialist fiercely opposed
to apartheid it appears all the more malicious to qualify them as racist,
though I am fully aware that this sledgehammer argument meanwhile has become
current coin in South Africa in want of logical arguments. Still, Mrs Zille has
clarified her intentions and expressly apologized to everyone who might have
been offended by her remarks.
Notwithstanding
the Democratic Alliance (DA), led by resentful and begrudging opponents pepping up the public frenzy and
in the wake of a disputable judicial process, has stripped its merited former leader
of all her party functions.
This, I am
convinced, is evidence of shameful inadequacy and proof of lack of self-assurance
as well as common sense on behalf of the DA. Apart from the absence of Helen
Zille´s experienced advice this fatal action will probably result in an inner
division of the DA at a moment when strong united opposition in the political
arena is more than ever needed. That is what affects the DA adversely rather
than the tweets. And furthermore this inner conflict and its outward appearance
can well be interpreted as weakness and soapiness towards the African National Congress (ANC), all the more
so, when one of the reasons cited by the DA is that the ANC has taken advantage
of those tweets against Mrs. Zille and the DA.
As a
foreigner passing considerable time in South Africa and caring for the country
and its future I have had and shown a lot of sympathy for the DA. Now, being
thoroughly disappointed, I am afraid I have to desist.
Guest comment by Klaus Stadtmüller
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