Politics is hard, it is a brutal business. A zero-sum game, win or lose; rise or fall. These are the stakes at play in every juncture. It can create distrust, sow discontent, play on people’s fears and bring out the very worse in some. Frustration, sadness and anger.
But it can also be a place of inspiration and hope. Of immense success and lasting change. Where grit and determination through the darkest of times can result in achieving amazing goals. To do this requires an individual of immense talent, someone who doesn’t just partake in politics, they give their life to it. They invest every fibre of their being in improving the lives and conditions of their fellow countrymen.
Rarely does one see a generational political talent in South Africa. An individual who makes such a tangible historical mark in the country that their character, their personality, their very soul comes to define the political experience of countless people.
Helen Zille is one such person. Zille has not only led and defined the Democratic Alliance as a political party, but she has fundamentally shaped the political landscape of South Africa.
And just when many thought she had stepped back from politics she looked towards her old home in Johannesburg, raised her hand said, “I want to fix it.” Zille’s campaign for Johannesburg over the last year has set the standard for any further campaigns in the future.
It has simply blown the opposition out of the water. Her work ethic, pace and commitment have seen her traverse every part of the city. She has scuba-dived in potholes, installed solar powered water systems, exposed hijacking buildings and decay, rebuilt an entire road, sailed a boat through flooded streets, attended countless public meetings, and much more. Recently she went even joined the local spinning scene and whipped a BMW round in circles.
To list and unpack the sheer extent of her campaign would require a separate article. But there are characteristics about Zille and her ability to connect with voters that are incredibly unique and come with a complete history of service to her country.
There is a set of skills worth highlighting about Zille which I believe places her leagues above the rest of her competitors. She can show a high level of intelligence, care and leadership about very serious matters that pertain to the dysfunction of Johannesburg, while also being able to be playful, funny and witty in the same vein.
It is one of the rarest skills in politics. This ability to walk the tight rope of authority and leadership while balancing relatability and genuineness. Tackling issues with seriousness while also showing you are a real person. Someone people would love to have round for dinner for both a debate and a laugh.
In a space where most politicians take themselves far too seriously many seek to emulate what they think a politician should be to the public. Ready at moment’s notice to be polished, scripted, serious and outraged about a particular issue but ultimately lacking any substance. Most opt for the serious demeanour least they be accused of being a clown.
Others try to position themselves as being more likeable and fun but often find they are then never able to get people to take them seriously either. To be smart is one thing. To be funny another. But to be both at the same time while also highlighting the collapse of a major city is nothing short of extraordinary and unique.
Perhaps in the age of social media rising politicians are just exceedingly careful least they say the wrong thing and face a mob screaming for their cancellation. Zille herself faced this down when there was a concerted attempted to smear and banish her out of public life. And for a time, she was even in some kind of political exile, but the DA made its way back to her and she to it.
And here she is, leading a historical campaign to take the city of Johannesburg. One which has defined this local government election. Her decades in politics and service to her country have established her as the ultimate front runner. She is with certainty going to emerge with the largest number of votes in the city and position the DA as the biggest party in Johannesburg.
Her campaign is so captivating, interesting and funny that I would be remiss if I didn’t say it makes me sad that the election will bring it to a close. It is unlike anything we have ever seen in South Africa, and it is quite possible it may be the last time we see Helen on the campaign trail. You never know.
But for now, one can only appreciate in wonder the incredible passion and drive that she has shown in trying to stop the decline and restore the shine to the city of gold.
[Image: Helen Zille]
The views of the writer are not necessarily the views of the Daily Friend or the IRR.
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