In a move that has left political observers stunned, Democratic Alliance (DA) Member of Parliament Liam Jacobs appears to have joined the Patriotic Alliance (PA), despite previously being vocal in his criticism of the party.
The unexpected announcement was made during a late-night Facebook Live broadcast hosted by Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, on Friday, June 13.
In a surprising twist, McKenzie momentarily left the live stream to fetch water, leaving the recording unattended, only for Jacobs to seize the opportunity and announce his defection on camera.
The 24-year-old MP appeared on screen beaming, and exclaimed: “Come on, come on Patriots! Are the people still awake? We are here President, I think the people are shocked. These people are shocked!”
In a moment that appeared both symbolic and personal, Jacobs added: “I’m at home. We are here; I’m at home. They called me a laaitie, but now I’m with my father!”
Jacobs’ reference to McKenzie as ‘father’ hints at a close political relationship forming between the two, raising questions about internal shifts within opposition politics and youth representation in Parliament.
Neither the DA nor the PA had issued an official statement at the time of publication, but the live stream has since gone viral on social media, prompting widespread debate.
While Jacobs was beaming on the Live, just days before, he was highly critical of McKenzie.
In a clash that was triggered when Jacobs questioned the minister’s decision to appoint Eugene Botha as chairperson of the National Arts Council (NAC).
“We must investigate whether there is actual ethics that can be found in this. We must investigate the potential of conflict of interest,” Jacobs said during the meeting. “I want to understand his understanding as to why a member of the PA became the chair of the board, being a member of the PA while he, as a minister, is a member of the PA. What is the rationale?”
McKenzie dismissed Jacobs’ concerns, insisting the appointment was lawful and accusing the MP of disguising a political attack in the language of ethics.
Politics
