The ANC Women’s League (ANCWL) has condemned the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) choice of Helen Zille as its Johannesburg mayoral candidate. Consequently, many are questioning the suitability of Helen Zille for the role of Joburg mayor.
Moreover, the league argues that Zille’s record reflects “exclusionary governance” and fails the city’s diverse communities. These criticisms follow Zille’s official unveiling in Soweto last weekend, and, as a result, they set up a fierce 2026 local election battle in South Africa’s economic hub.
Past Remarks Drive Backlash
Notably, the league points to Zille’s controversial 2012 comments, when she referred to Eastern Cape migrants in the Western Cape as “refugees.” In their view, this undermined constitutional values and inclusivity. Furthermore, they say nominating someone associated with those remarks sends the wrong signal to residents.
Service Delivery Claims Under Scrutiny
Beyond rhetoric, the league challenges Zille’s service delivery record. Specifically, they highlight Du Noon and Blikkiesdorp as areas where African and Coloured communities “were failed.” Therefore, they argue that promises to fix water, electricity, and roads in Johannesburg ring hollow. Consequently, the ANCWL maintains that the Helen Zille Joburg mayor campaign will not deliver better services to ordinary residents.
DA Positions Zille as a Fixer
Meanwhile, the DA portrays Zille as a seasoned leader who can stabilise a city battered by coalition churn and failing basics. At the launch, party leaders cast the contest as a choice between “decay and renewal.” Additionally, they said Zille would prioritise water, electricity, road repairs, and anti-corruption. Her supporters insist Johannesburg needs experienced leadership; however, critics remain unconvinced. Accordingly, the ongoing debate over Helen Zille becoming Joburg mayor is likely to dominate city politics into 2026.
What it Means for Voters
Ultimately, this clash is about trust and delivery. The ANCWL asks voters to judge Zille’s past and, therefore, to reject what it calls hypocrisy. The DA, on the other hand, urges voters to back its plan to steady the city. As the campaign hardens, Johannesburg will test whether reputation or promises carry more weight in a tight, high-stakes race centred on the Helen Zille Joburg mayor bid.
