‘John Moodey played the race card’ – DA furious after Gauteng leader quits

It has been another damaging day for the Democratic Alliance (DA) after their leader in Gauteng quit the party in dramatic fashion. John Moodey slammed the internal hierarchy for ‘dividing the DA on race’, and claimed that the Helen Zille faction of the movement wanted to create a ‘new apartheid’ in South Africa. He certainly didn’t hold back…

RT @MandiNyathi: Moodey says he can't be complacent and be part of a party that wants to be part of the next apartheid regime.#JohnMoodey

— City Press (@City_Press) September 2, 2020

DA responds to John Moodey’s resignation

The DA has matched the confrontational tone set by John Moodey earlier in the day. They label his departure ‘unfortunate and unnecessary’. However, the party risks kicking a hornet nest by blaming him for ‘playing the race card’.

“John Moodey’s departure is both unfortunate and unnecessary. The DA believes that he is making a mistake because the DA is the only party that can unseat the ANC and we deliver a fair, effective, and accountable government.”

“John has cited alleged unfairness through the charges he faces before our Federal Legal Commission. We confirm that due process was followed, as it always has been. We reject the allegation that these charges amount to a witch-hunt against him. It is very unfortunate that he plays the race card to justify his decision to avoid due process.”

DA statement

DA Gauteng leader slammed for ‘playing the race card’

The official statement in response to John Moodey – issued by DA National Spokesperson Refiloe Nt’sekhe and DA Gauteng Provincial Chairperson Mike Moriarty – did thank the outgoing politician for his 22 years of service to the party. But tensions remain at boiling point between the two camps.

“The DA remains committed to growing our support in all communities across our diverse society. To this extent, we are pleased to see our growth during the last five months.”

“We are well on course to become the core of a realigned majority that will defeat the ANC, bring good governance, ensure an economic recovery, and an open opportunity society for our country. We thank John for his service and wish him well for his future.”

DA statement