Chris Pappas: ‘Apartheid is not coming back’ as DA seeks re-election in uMngeni (VIDEO)

Chris Pappas, the Democratic Alliance (DA) mayor of uMngeni, argued that South Africa must move beyond racial fears in politics. Pappas, who is seeking re-election, reflected on his tenure as mayor and the municipality's focus on service delivery, financial stability, and economic growth.

Acknowledging South Africa's painful history of racial inequality and political division, Pappas emphasized that political leaders cannot ignore these wounds. However, he believed that political leadership should increasingly be judged on competence and delivery rather than racial concerns. During the DA's 2021 election campaign, some communities feared a white leader could represent a return to apartheid.

Pappas stated that these fears were exploited and that voters were warned that DA rule would threaten grants and RDP houses.

Since 2021, Pappas argued, the municipality's experience has disproved these claims. He emphasized that the DA would not bring back apartheid. Pappas said his administration inherited significant financial and operational challenges, including only two working brush cutters and one operational tractor. However, his administration prioritized financial stability and municipal maintenance, building partnerships with businesses and organizations.

The mayor's ability to communicate with residents in several languages helped him build relationships with predominantly black communities. While race remains an important part of South Africa's political history, Pappas believed that leaders must demonstrate that government can work for everyone. Honesty in leadership required difficult conversations with communities, he argued, explaining what government could deliver rather than making unrealistic promises.

Pappas concluded that uMngeni's experience provides an example of how voters can judge leaders by performance, focusing on competent government, accountability, and delivering better services.