"For those claiming legacy of colonialism was ONLY negative..." tweets Helen Zille
Democratic Alliance (DA) Western Cape leader and former leader of the opposition, Helen Zille, has come under fire after she tweeted about the supposed benefits of colonialism.
Zille took to Twitter to share her views on what colonialism has done for South Africa,
"Would we have had a transition into specialised health care and medication without colonial influence? Just be honest, please," tweeted Zille.
The comments left a lot of Twitter users outraged.
Spokesperson for DA leader Mmusi Maimane, Mabine Seabe, says Zille's tweets do not represent the views or position of the DA.
"Colonialism, like apartheid, was an evil and oppressive system that should never be justified in any way," says Seabe.
Seabe says he is not sure whether action will be taken by Maimane against Zille.
"The rules are quite clear that tweets by public representatives of the party cannot be offensive or derogatory in any way," says Seabe.
Maimane took to Twitter to make this clear.
Zille has apologised for her remarks.
But people on Twitter have not been so forgiving.
@CarlaKatjie @Djandy_kay @helenzille we see u Hellen!!! 2019 we will remember this day!!! Keep at it!!
— Yolisa Khantwane (@Mayols23) March 16, 2017
@KGBBlackPower @helenzille peas in a pod. pic.twitter.com/X6pZdEDeGB
— Sphamandla Mkhize (@MandlaMkhize) March 16, 2017
@helenzille No No No you were saying we're blacks should be greatful for colonialism. You were celebrating it!!! apology NOT ACCEPTED!
— Captive (@malopemakola) March 16, 2017
@malopemakola @helenzille Yeah its like: Thanks for the land, here's some running water for your tiny shack. Consolation prize or what. SAD
— Tequila Punk (@TequilaPunk) March 16, 2017
@helenzille after defending it with follow up tweets don't insult us wena.Apologyy not accepeted
— Sipho Wa Lebowakgomo (@SiphoMosotho) March 16, 2017