Authoritarian ANC policy

The DA unequivocally rejects the newly introduced social media policy of eThekwini municipality. While we do not reject a social media policy in principle, we believe that this policy is authoritarian and will undermine and stifle the work of councillors, especially those in opposition whose mandate it is to oversee the governing body.

In terms of the policy, councillors are obliged to “defend the reputation” of the municipality. As an opposition, it is not our job to defend the municipality, but to apply checks and balances on its performance in delivering the services to the people.

The policy also states that failure to comply with the policy will lead to “disciplinary” action. This is laughable. This policy is clearly little more than an attempt by the ANC in eThekwini to smother the opposition, which has up to now made sure that they account for all the looting that is taking place. The ANC is trying to oppress the fundamental right to freedom of speech entrenched in our Constitution and we will not allow it.

The DA will never approve any policy that seeks to undermine the opposition. This policy violates our constitutional rights as well as our mandate and we will not approve it under any circumstances.

eThekwini, under the current ANC administration, is a free-for-all where ANC politicians and officials indulge on taxpayers’ money. We will never stop voicing our disapproval of this on all platforms, social media included.

We will not be intimidated or censored. Hlengiwe Shozi DA councillor, eThekwini