Note to Broadcasters: Please find attached soundbites in English and Afrikaans by Carin Visser
The Democratic Alliance (DA) in the North West strongly condemns the shocking incident of intimidation and alleged physical assault that took place during the Rustenburg Local Municipality Special Council meeting on 30 March 2026.
According to information received, the council sitting descended into chaos when an MK Party councillor aggressively confronted DA Cllr Tanya Rothman, shouting in her ear, pointing at her, and ultimately allegedly shoving her during proceedings. This conduct is not only disgraceful but represents a complete breakdown of order, respect, and the rule of law within a democratic institution.
Let us be clear: we will not allow DA councillors to be bullied, intimidated, or assaulted, least of all a female councillor by a male counterpart, especially during Human Rights Month, when South Africa is meant to reaffirm its commitment to dignity, equality, and safety for all.
This incident is a stark reminder that political spaces remain unsafe for women, and that too many still believe aggression and violence are acceptable tools of engagement. They are not.
The DA stands firmly behind Cllr Rothman. She acted to protect herself in a volatile and threatening situation. No woman should ever be forced to defend herself against intimidation in a council chamber meant to serve the people. We welcome the fact that criminal cases have been opened, and we will pursue every available legal avenue to ensure that justice is served and that those responsible are held fully accountable.
Furthermore, we call for:
- Immediate consequences for those who violated council decorum and the law
- A full investigation into the incident
- Stronger enforcement of rules to protect councillors from intimidation and violence
The DA will not be silent. We will not retreat. And we will not allow a culture of lawlessness and intimidation to take root in our democratic institutions.
We will rally behind our councillor. We will defend her. And we will ensure that justice is done.