DA's Double Standard Exposed: Karabo Khakhau's Appeal Highlights Party's Racial Tensions

DA MP Karabo Khakhau is fighting for her rights against all odds.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief, The Azanian

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Cape Town - DA MP Karabo Khakhau is challenging a party decision barring her from contesting the deputy chairperson position on the Federal Council, citing an outstanding "tithe" payment she claims has already been made.

But Khakhau's appeal has exposed deeper concerns about the party's treatment of Black leaders, with insiders alleging that the DA is applying double standards and perpetuating racial marginalization.

Khakhau, a vocal and respected voice in the party, insists she settled the amount in full and owes the DA nothing. Despite this, the party refused her a letter of good financial standing, a prerequisite for the position, forcing her to withdraw from the race.

"I will not quit. I don't give up that easily. I have appealed the decision and will await the response from the party," Khakhau told IOL.

However, insiders allege the DA is applying double standards, pointing to DA leader John Steenhuisen's previous failure to pay contributions without consequence. "They pick and choose how they apply rules based on who you are," a senior source said. "It's not just about Karabo; it's about the systemic marginalization of Black leaders in the party."

Former DA minister Dion George weighed in, suggesting the party's credit control policy was not followed. "If Karabo missed a payment, she should have received a letter. If she didn't, that process failed her - double standard indeed," he said on social media.

The controversy comes amid ongoing internal racial tensions and disagreements over the party's direction, with several prominent Black leaders having departed in recent years, including former leader Mmusi Maimane, Mbali Ntuli, and Herman Mashaba. Many have cited feelings of marginalization and exclusion from decision-making processes.

Khakhau's appeal has reignited concerns about the DA's commitment to diversity and inclusion. "This is not just about Karabo's career; it's about the future of Black leaders in the DA," said a party insider. "If they can't get this right, what's the point of pretending to be a diverse and inclusive party?"

The DA has defended its decision, stating Khakhau failed to meet the requirements. But with emotions running high, it's clear that the party's internal conflicts are far from over.