JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) – South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described as “treasonous” a campaign ad by an opposition party that depicts a burning national flag, as antagonism between political parties rose three weeks before an election.
The campaign ad released on Monday by the Democratic Alliance uses the burning flag as a metaphor for what it says is the grave risk of the ruling African National Congress retaining power in a coalition with left-wing parties.
“I think it is treasonous,” Ramaphosa told reporters during a visit to Limpopo province. “It is the most despicable political act that anyone can embark upon,” he said, accusing the DA of desecrating a symbol of national unity.
The business-friendly DA won the second largest share of the vote in the last election five years ago. This year’s May 29 election is hotly contested, with polls suggesting the ANC will lose its majority for the first time since it came to power 30 years ago at the end of apartheid.
This has raised the possibility that the ANC will have to form a coalition.
The ad shows a flag slowly burning as a voice warns of a disastrous alliance between the ANC, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and those aligned with former President Jacob Zuma.
An intact flag then unrolls from the ashes of the burnt one as the slogan “Unite to rescue South Africa, vote DA” appears.
Furthermore, Ramaphosa’s condemnation of the opposition’s flag-burning ad sends a clear message about the government’s commitment to preserving national unity and integrity. The use of inflammatory imagery in political campaigns undermines the democratic process and fosters division within society.
As South Africa navigates complex political and social challenges, leaders must prioritize dialogue and constructive engagement to address grievances and promote national unity.
read more
image source
