Democratic Alliance (DA) federal chairperson Helen Zille’s bid for the City of Johannesburg mayoral seat has sparked widespread debate.
The 74-year-old’s age has ignited strong reactions across South Africa’s political landscape, with critics questioning her suitability as a candidate.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Members of Parliament (MPs) MPs Sihle Lonzi and Sinawo Thambo, took to X to voice their opposition to Zille’s possible candidacy.
EFF MPS SAY ZILLE IS TOO OLD
The backlash followed Zille’s appearance on PowerFM’s Women’s Month campaign. Lonzi argued that Johannesburg cannot be fixed by a “granny,” writing:
“Zille is visibly old, tired and frail. Which makes sense because she is a 75-year-old PENSIONER. There is no amount of PAID media that can change that fact. Helen must go spend quality time with her grandchildren.”
Thambo, the EFF’s national convener of the party’s youth command, also questioned why Zille is being considered for the role. He emphasised Johannesburg’s potential to be the most innovative and vibrant city in Africa, arguing that Zille is not the right leader for that vision.
“Why must everyone retire at 65 years old, but old people with arthritis can contest to lead a world-class city? Why is this normal? This is self-hate. We are handing over our country to people on the brink of dementia because you have a dream of Camps Bay in Midrand,” Thambo tweeted.
Thambo also slammed media personalities for promoting Zille to run as mayor.
“No amount of money should allow you to promote a person on the edge of confusion due to age to lead Joburg. I had grandparents, I can tell you for free, I would not have endorsed them to lead a City. Respect yourselves – even if NASPERS and Rupert force you to endorse dementia to lead Joburg,” he added.
MIXED REACTIONS TO MAYORAL BID
Meanwhile other X users shared mixed reactions to the tweet, with @THULIIIIIIIIII posting: “Because we’ve normalised nonsense, there must be a retirement age in politics.” @Richard70641109 commented: “Sinawo, Boet have you seen Jhb recently. It is a mess. Helen restored CT after the ANC messed it up. She will do the same to JHB.” Another user, @MichaelJamesKir wrote, “I equally have concerns about politicians of age having high positions. She will have to delegate the youth effectively if she gets in.”
DO YOU THINK HELEN ZILLE SHOULD RUN FOR THE POSITION OF JOHANNESBURG MAYOR?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
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