“We’ll Forgive Mashaba If He Shows Us He Is Black Like Me And Keep Helen Zillie Out” Dudu Zuma Says

Dudu Zuma has sparked political debate after making a pointed statement about ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba, suggesting that he could be forgiven if he distances himself from the Democratic Alliance (DA) and its prominent figure, Helen Zille.

In the remarks, Zuma reportedly said Mashaba would be forgiven “this once” if he demonstrated that he was “Black like me” and kept both Zille and the DA out of the picture.

The statement appears to question Mashaba’s political associations and his relationship with the DA, particularly given his history with the party.

Mashaba previously served as Johannesburg mayor under the DA before leaving the party and establishing ActionSA. His political relationship with the DA has remained a subject of debate, especially amid discussions about possible coalition arrangements following the 2026 Local Government Elections.

Zuma’s comments also bring the issue of race and political identity into the broader conversation about South African politics, where coalition partnerships and ideological differences continue to shape political alliances.

Although it remains unclear what prompted the latest remarks, they have added to the ongoing debate surrounding Mashaba’s political choices and his position in the country’s evolving political landscape.

The comments are likely to attract reactions from supporters of ActionSA, the DA and other political formations.

Source: https://x.com/DZumaSambudla/status/2119843745663463771?a=KCtlVwgEuMHXFz8lUPE&s=19