Joe Seremane, a former inmate of Robben Island, member of the PAC and ANC Youth League, joined the then Democratic Party in 1994 to provide stronger opposition to the ANC. As national chairperson, he remains the only senior black official in the DA, which is desperately trying to attract more black support.
The DA is well aware that it has to grow its black support if it aspires to challenge the ANC. How do you propose to grow this support base?
We will have to look at how we operate so that we can begin to make an impact on those people who believe we cannot serve their interests. Voters are not static. The honeymoon and euphoria of Uhuru are fading and people will begin to say: ‘Are the [ANC] delivering what they promised?â€
Are you not scared that a black leader in the DA might frighten the large Afrikaner constituency that has found a home in the party after the crumbling of the National Party?
Some might be, others not — across all communities. This is a moment of truth, not only for the DA, but for South Africa as a whole. Here’s where the challenge lies: if they subscribe to a non-racial political framework, but now they have difficulty being led by a black man or an outsider from their little comfort zone, it does not speak well of them.
Where do you believe your support will come from?
I don’t confine myself to any one province or constituency. Over the years, I have moved all over the country through our various structures and I have [been] found to be acceptable all over the country. They have asked me: ‘Please, Bra Joe, please stand.†Yes, some believe that the Free State and North West will deliver support to me, but I believe that my support is not solely situated in those provinces.
Where does Joe Seremane stand on BEE?
We are not against BEE in principle. But what we are saying is that the way it is being carried out is not very nice. It seems to be sending signals that it is being done along racial lines, just like with apartheid and its job reservation. But we understand that there are people who need to be uplifted and we came up with the term ‘broad-basedâ€. Let it be all-embracing. Poor people are poor people, whether they are black, white, Indian or coloured. Some might have had opportunities in the past, but they are poor now.
What about affirmative action?
Affirm, but don’t discriminate. You are dealing with your citizens; don’t make some of them feel marginalised. The opportunities must be there for all. You can ask where can I use these people with skills, instead of them feeling marginalised. Be innovative. Get people with experience and skills to mentor a young Jacob or Themba.
What issues in government lie close to your heart?
As a former teacher, it has to be education. I feel that is too experimental. These are young minds that we are playing around with. When I listen to young people who have gone through the mill today, my heart breaks.
How do you feel about critics calling you an Uncle Tom in the DA’s and South Africa’s political landscape?
I have been called a lot of things by my detractors. In Afrikaans, they say the highest tree always catches the most wind. I have asked myself am I really that and the answer is a definite no.
Who do you expect to be your Âbiggest rival?
Helen Zille is still thinking about entering and Athol Trollip has announced his candidacy. All of them are dear to me. There is no malice. Their victory is my victory. There will be no floor-crossing if I lose.