DA slams Minister Chikunga for attending Iranian Revolution Commemoration

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has condemned Minister in the Presidency, Sindisiwe Chikunga, for her attendance at the 47th commemoration of Iran’s Islamic Revolution, calling it a violation of the country’s constitutional values and foreign policy.

The commemoration was held at the Iranian Embassy in Pretoria on Friday, February 6.

The party stated that Chikunga’s presence signals support for Iran’s authoritarian regime, amid reports of violent crackdowns on anti-government protests.

Furthermore, the DA raised concerns over what it describes as the irony of a Minister for Women engaging with a government accused of severe human rights abuses, especially against women.

DA Spokesperson on International Relations and Cooperation, Ryan Smith, issued a stern rebuke.

"The DA, as a member of the Government of National Unity (GNU), condemns this act of diplomatic recklessness in the strongest possible terms," said Smith. "We reject the African National Congress’ (ANC) attempt to subvert the constitution and hijack the South African government to trample upon the principles of freedom, democracy, and human rights."