Mashaba's exit shows serious racial divide within the DA - Prof Steven Friedman
Herman Mashaba's decision to resign from the Democratic Alliance (DA) is an indication of serious racial divisions within the party, says political fundi Professor Steven Friedman.
Mashaba announced his resignation, effective on November 27, at a press conference at the Johannesburg city council on Monday morning.
RELATED: Mashaba: DA is no longer a movement that can save South Africa
DA leader Mmusi Maimane stood next to Mashaba during the media briefing as he lambasted the party and later hailed the outgoing Joburg mayor as his "hero".
It indicates a very serious racial divide within the DA.
Prof Steven Friedman, Professor of Political Studies - University of Johannesburg
If you look at this morning's media conference, Mmusi Maimane was actually there with Mashaba and called him his hero at the end.
Prof Steven Friedman, Professor of Political Studies - University of Johannesburg
Mashaba's resignation comes after Helen Zille's appointment as the DA's new federal council chair on Sunday.
Friedman says the cracks within the party are clearly widening as the DA's old guard clings onto white liberalism.
RELATED: Mashaba is free to do what he likes, says Helen Zille
I would read that to say that whatever Mashaba's real motivations, it's being presented as a senior black DA member who feels that he's being undermined by the white leadership. It's going to be a problem for the DA going forward.
Prof Steven Friedman, Professor of Political Studies - University of Johannesburg
You can have liberalism that is acceptable to very many black people.
Prof Steven Friedman, Professor of Political Studies - University of Johannesburg
Listen to the full discussion on Afternoon Drive with John Maytham:
This article first appeared on CapeTalk : Mashaba's exit shows serious racial divide within the DA - Prof Steven Friedman
More from Politics

Minister Jackson Mthembu passes away
In a statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa says Mthembu was an exemplary leader and a life-long champion of freedom and democracy.
Read More
Bandile Masuku says SIU findings have ruined his reputation and his career
Eyewitness News reporter Tshidi Madia gives an update between the former Gauteng MEC and the Special Investigating Unit.
Read More
Why do we have fewer women in public discourse?
Sunday Times deputy features editor Sue De Groot says women express very passionate views about things in safe spaces.
Read More
Report finds unfair racial discrimination evidence by three medical aid schemes
Advocate Tembeka Ngcukaitobi, who compiled the scathing Section 59 report, weighs in on the Section 59 report findings.
Read More
ANC serves Carl Niehaus with notice of suspension
The Umkhonto we Sizwe Military Veterans' Association spokesperson has 48 hours to respond to the letter.
Read More
Ramaphosa: Treasury will make sure money is available for COVID-19 vaccine
President Cyril Ramaphosa said that the country would get 20 million vaccines from a variety of suppliers including Pfizer, AstraZeneca as well as Johnson & Johnson.
Read More
Clement Manyathela and Tshidi Madia speak to the President
Cyril Ramaphosa comments about the war against #Covid19 and plans for our battered economy and the challenges facing the ANC.
Read More
'Thank you Mr President for not shutting us down, but we need more support!'
Loadshedding is another blow to the struggling restaurant industry. We need more relief says Grace Harding (Restaurant Collective)
Read More
Malema willing to be the first one to get COVID-19 vaccine
EFF leader Julius Malema is calling for members to halt political gatherings pending further guidance from government.
Read More
Singh must provide affidavit by Monday after non-appearance at Zondo Commission
Former Eskom CFO Anoj Singh will still have to appear after not testifying as scheduled, says EWN's Gaye Davis. But will he sing?
Read More