Democratic Alliance (DA) Johannesburg mayoral candidate Helen Zille’s appearance on Anele and the Club has sparked strong reactions.
Zille, often referred to as the “Iron Lady,” was invited to discuss her political future but the interview quickly grew tense.
The exchange, now viral on social media, has drawn widespread criticism of both the DA’s federal council chairperson and radio host Anele Mdoda.
RACISM CLAIMS SPARK REACTIONS
The discussion covered service delivery, government mismanagement, and racism. Mdoda questioned whether racists could survive in the DA, suggesting Zille’s biggest challenge in her mayoral campaign would be winning over black voters who feel disconnected from her.
Zille defended her party, saying the DA is “the most non-racial party” in the country and insisting she does not judge people by their skin colour. Mdoda pushed back, pointing to the negative sentiment Zille often faces on X, arguing that many do not trust her to have the interests of black South Africans at heart.
“You don’t speak for black people. I don’t speak for white people. I am an individual and I want people to judge me as an individual,” she said.
Zille also said that she had done more to fight apartheid than anyone in the studio.
FROM FEUD TO TRUCE
Despite the heated back-and-forth, the pair appeared to part on amicable terms. Mdoda later took to X to wish Zille well in her 2026 Local Government Election campaign.
Zille also tweeted: “I look forward to spending more time with Joburg residents as we work to root out the rot and get service delivery back on track for all communities.”
