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Putting Pettiness Before People

Dear Editor

On 8 April 2025, the Patriotic Alliance (PA) made their priorities crystal clear: party politics over people, obstruction over progress.

In a shameful display of hypocrisy and political opportunism, the PA voted against three progressive Democratic Alliance (DA) motions in the National Council of Provinces. Each of these motions were designed to honour excellence, restore dignity, and advance meaningful development for communities across South Africa.

First, they opposed the recognition of the Western Cape Government’s R918 million Leeuloop Precinct, a groundbreaking, mixed-use affordable housing project set to benefit over 840 families. The PA claims to fight for the poor, yet they rejected a project delivering real homes and real hope. That is not just hypocrisy, it’s betrayal.

This was a DA motion, to recognise home ownership, but the PA obviously doesn’t support home ownership

Second, they voted against a motion honouring respected religious leaders who have chosen a path of integrity and joined the DA’s fight for clean, capable governance. These leaders uplift communities daily. The PA stopped Parliament recognising the positive and selfless role of religious leaders in society. The PA are insulting the people and religious leaders.

Finally, among the motions that the PA voted against, was a congratulatory message recognising the outstanding achievements of the Klerksdorp/Tshepong Tertiary Hospital, and most notably, Sister Lesedi Taunyane, who was recently honoured with the prestigious ‘Best Professional Nurse’ award. This recognition celebrates excellence, compassion, and tireless service in South Africa’s healthcare sector.

The pattern is clear: if the DA puts it forward, the PA opposes it, regardless of the merit. This is not principled opposition. This is obstruction for the sake of alliance-building with the ANC and self-interest.

While the PA plays games in Parliament, the DA will keep doing the work that matters. We will build homes, support our communities, and honour those who serve our people with excellence.

The PA did not vote against the DA. They voted against the people.

Regards

Rikus Badenhorst MP
DA Member of the National Council of Provinces (NCOP)

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