Maimane criticised for defending #JohnSteenhuisen

Leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) Mmusi Maimane suffered his fair share of criticism when he voiced his support of DA Chief Whip John Steenhuisen after a Sunday Time report revealed that he only has a matric qualification. Picture: Tracey Adams/African News Agency

Leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) Mmusi Maimane suffered his fair share of criticism when he voiced his support of DA Chief Whip John Steenhuisen after a Sunday Time report revealed that he only has a matric qualification. Picture: Tracey Adams/African News Agency

Published Nov 26, 2018

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Cape Town - Leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) Mmusi Maimane suffered his fair share of criticism when he voiced his support for DA Chief Whip John Steenhuisen after a Sunday Times report revealed that he only has a matric qualification.

According to the report, Steenhuisen could lose his position as chief whip if a proposal that only a Member of Parliament with a university degree be considered for the position is adopted by the party's KwaZulu-Natal caucus to the Independent Commission for the Remuneration of Public Office Bearers.

Once news spread, John Steenhuisen became a trending topic on social media. However, Maimane tweeted that he was appalled at the story.

"The questions sent weren’t even related to the story. We have to continue to fight for an independent media. Our country has been well served by some but we simply can’t succumb to factional, fictional reporting."

I’m appalled at the level of stories. The questions sent weren’t even related to the story. We have to continue to fight for an independent media. Our country has been well served by some but we simply can’t succumb to factional, fictional reporting. https://t.co/iIb070EGGa

— Mmusi Maimane (@MmusiMaimane) November 24, 2018

He added: "I have worked with a great legislator, a chief whip and a friend. He is the finest Chief whip of the opposition in Parli. A constitutionalist and a fierce defender of freedom. He will continue to serve our party and the people of South Africa @jsteenhuisen."

I have worked with a great legislator, a chief whip and a friend. He is the finest Chief whip of the opposition in Parli. A constitutionalist and a fierce defender of freedom. He will continue to serve our party and the people of South Africa @jsteenhuisen https://t.co/Gp1ONBM8n7

— Mmusi Maimane (@MmusiMaimane) November 25, 2018

His remarks did not stop the criticism, as some feel Maimane is missing the crux of the matter.

He really is a fine MP. But the point relates to our constant social struggle - the different demands and requirements of the races. This is a deeply painful topic. Better you think bigger than defending your comrade, but considering the source ad meaning of tension.

— xhanti (@XhantiPayi) November 25, 2018

The DA was all over the place dragging Hlaudi over his lack of education, but they’re now telling us that education is not that important, all in defense of white privilege 🤦🏽‍♂️. This is an insult to our intelligence! #Steenhuisen pic.twitter.com/jH333htfrp

— Tali Gun (@Tforce6100) November 25, 2018

#Steenhuisen

Maybe being white qualifies you. Look at Van Damme and Maimane, they wouldn't have been there with just a mere Matric.., it's embedded into the corporate too, white people get and occupy high positions simply because of colour. It's sad

— LandlordSA (@sklebambo) November 26, 2018

Maimane fired Loyiso Nkohla from some useless Cape Town Municipality post, for not having a degree. Then he goes to appoint John Steenhuisen, to a much BIGGER & IMPORTANT role, as the chief Whip of the DA's parliametary caucus. John's highest qualification, like Loyiso, is matric

— Tumelo Mapaa (@DjNewSouthAfric) November 25, 2018

@TheCapeArgus

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