Museum Day or campaign rally? Controversy erupts as ANC accused of hijacking museum handover
The DA has condemned the ANC's alleged electioneering at museum celebration.
An International Museum Day celebration at Stanger High School on Saturday sparked controversy, with accusations that the ANC hijacked the government-funded event for electioneering purposes.
Hosted by the MEC for Sport, Arts, and Culture, Dr Ntuthuko Mahlaba, who officially handed over the reconstructed KwaDukuza Museum to the municipality, the event was flooded with ANC supporters wearing party regalia.
But what caused the outcry was a poster advertising an ANC ‘mini rally’ at the same venue just an hour after the handover, featuring the some of the artists hired to perform at the celebration.
Democratic Alliance caucus leader Tammy Colley cried foul, saying the party had executed a piggyback manoeuvre at the taxpayers expense.
“It cannot be a mere coincidence that both programmes advertised at the same time, date, venue and artists were separate programmes.
“This incredulous use of public funds for political campaigning should be condemned in the strongest possible terms. The ANC should not underestimate the residents of KwaDukuza,” said Colley.
The tent was filled with ANC supporters, school pupils and residents who attended the celebration.
Speaking at the event, KwaDukuza mayor Lindi Nhaca expressed excitement about the new museum.
“We take pride in expanding the heritage of our forebears who envisioned a democratic South Africa and a better future for all. I would also like to commend the initiative of the KwaDukuza municipal council and the provincial Cabinet for expanding our museum.”
She said she hoped the museum would be a centre of engagement, where pride and appreciation for history would be restored.
The ANC regional secretary, Siphesihle Zulu, said that the party pays for services provided at its functions. In terms of people wearing ANC regalia at events, the country’s law does not prohibit any member of the public from wearing political party colours at public events, unless advised otherwise by the security cluster due to potential political tension at the event.
“As the ANC, we have been organising numerous activities, including sports games that are attended by members of other political parties, even though these events are specifically for the ANC. Our members attend government events as ordinary members of the public,” said Zulu.
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