Backlash Erupts: Siv Ngesi & Khaya Dlanga Slammed for Endorsing Helen Zille!

"Worshipping Whiteness? Public Turns on Celebs Over Zille Praise"

Khaya Dlanga, Helen Zille and Siv Ngesi image khaya Siv via x (Helen Zille GCSI 

Khaya Dlanga and Siv Ngesi have found themselves at the center of public backlash after publicly endorsing Helen Zille as a potential solution to Johannesburg’s leadership crisis. Both public figures praised Zille’s past performance as Cape Town mayor, arguing that she has the skills to fix what they describe as a “broken” Johannesburg. Their remarks, however, have sparked widespread criticism and accusations that they are out of touch with the realities faced by black South Africans.

Many have accused Dlanga and Ngesi of glorifying whiteness and ignoring the efforts of black leaders like Herman Mashaba and Dr. Nasiphi Moya, the current mayor of Tshwane from ActionSA, who are widely credited with doing the hard work of cleaning up their cities. Mashaba’s continued role through ActionSA, particularly in the Tshwane coalition, and Moya’s leadership in Tshwane including her swift action to resolve the Hamanskraal water crisis that had resulted in loss of lives are viewed by many as real examples of leadership focused on action rather than image. In contrast, the DA’s tenure in Tshwane under figures like Cilliers Brink is remembered for financial mismanagement, worsening infrastructure, and public dissatisfaction.

Critics argue that Dlanga and Ngesi are participating in a broader pattern where black figures elevate white leadership while dismissing or overlooking black politicians who are actively making change. Their support for Zille is seen as a betrayal by those who believe that leadership should not just be about administrative efficiency, but also about understanding the lived experiences of the communities most affected by poor governance.

Zille’s record, while praised in some circles, is viewed by others as deeply uneven successful in Cape Town’s wealthier areas but neglectful of places like Khayelitsha and the Cape Flats. Her past controversial remarks, particularly those defending aspects of colonialism, continue to alienate black communities. The fact that public figures like Dlanga and Ngesi would back her despite this history has reignited debates about internalized racism, elitism, and whose leadership is deemed credible in South Africa.

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