Mbalula Condemns Zille's Alleged Racial Bias Amid Bela March Controversy

African National Congress (ANC) secretary-general, Fikile Mbalula, has levelled serious accusations against Democratic Alliance (DA) Federal Chairperson Helen Zille, citing 'deep-seated racial biases' as a driving factor in her recent conduct. In a charged ANC media briefing on Thursday, Mbalula responded to the protest at the Voortrekker Monument, a demonstration that saw the congregation of around 10,000 individuals wearing colours reminiscent of the old apartheid flag – notably, orange, blue, and white.

The event, organized by AfriForum, the DA, and Solidariteit, took place on Tuesday and purported to champion the protection of home languages in schools. However, critics argue that the symbolism and the presence of Steve Hofmeyr, an Afrikaans musician with a controversial history, tainted the protest with racial overtones, detracting from its stated cause.

Analyst Piet Croucamp highlighted concerns that race and ethnicity may have overshadowed the true educational intent of the march, while Cosatu spokesperson Zanele Sabela urged the Human Rights Commission to investigate the event's organizers. Sabela's appeal comes amid growing disquiet over the racism perceived by black analysts and civil organizations in relation to the march's themes and visuals.

Observers like Verne Harris, the former CEO of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, echoed Cosatu's unease at the event. Mbalula denounced Zille's alleged role in what he describes as a pattern of divisive and exclusionary behaviour by the DA, using the march as an example of an 'orchestrated' action indicative of the DA's values.

Despite the controversy, Mbalula reaffirmed the ANC's commitment to its vision of serving all South Africans and working towards eliminating inequality, a mission that he suggests is compromised by what he perceives as Zille's opportunist and divisive tactics. In doing so, he defends the ANC's role and responsibilities within the Government of National Unity (GNU), notwithstanding the DA's participation in it.

Although Mbalula's rhetoric is strong and frames the ANC as a force for inclusive democracy, his words also hint at underlying tensions within the GNU, challenging the DA by suggesting they are free to leave the coalition should they wish to part ways over ideological differences.

The recent march, which critics allege harks back to a darker period in South African history, underscores a wider societal debate regarding identity and its role in the nation's ongoing transformation journey. Mbalula’s statements reflect continued efforts to address these sensitive issues within the context of a politically diverse South Africa, aiming to foster national unity in the face of divisive actions.