Former Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Helen Zille is finally upgrading her more than 25-year-old car to another affordable option. South Africans are praising her modesty.
The outspoken politician is known for calling on DA ministers and MPS to shun special treatment in cabinet. This includes new cars, blue light security, and home upgrades.
HELEN ZILLE PARTS WITH CORSA, REVEALS ‘NEW’ CAR
In a tweet, Helen Zille revealed that she had sold her trusted Corsa car, which she had used for a quarter of a century.
Posting a pic of her beside the silver-grey car, she tweeted: “Although I’m smiling, I had a tear in my eye when I finally said farewell to my Corsa that served me and my family well for 25 years.
She continued: “That car saved my life when I was shot during an attack while organizing for the DA in Khayelitsha. We went everywhere together.”
In the comments section, Helen was asked what car she would be driving next.
“A Toyota Yaris,” she responded.
In 2003, Helen Zille narrowly escaped death when her Corsa was shot at in an attempted hijacking in Khayelitsha. At the time of the attack, Helen was driving home one evening after doing constituency work in the informal settlement.
The bullet struck the back of her car seat, with Helen claiming that the springs of the cushion likely shielded her.
PRAISE FOR SAVVY SAVER
Under her tweet, South Africans were full of praise for Helen Zille’s cost-efficiency and humility.
Here’s what a few had to say…
@Amanda01241993: “A person that drives the same car for 25 years can be trusted!”
@AMP_analyst: “That is a true ecological approach. Keeping a car running for 25 years instead of ditching it because Greta doesn’t like old cars, and Elon wants us to go electric. Well done, little Corsa, and to you too, madam”.
@tersfees: “Ai Ouma, it’s nice to see you guys are just like us – drive normal cars. Take care of it like it’s the only car on earth and appreciate its years of service”.
@pruecrosoer: “Helen Zille has driven an Opel Corsa for 25 years! This is a symbol of her commitment to a better life for all South Africans. Compare this with all the ANC cadres who immediately buy themselves top-of-range motor cars and go on endless overseas trips.”
A true definition of servant leadership! While others were upgrading their cars every term, Helen was out here riding with loyalty. Respect!
— In A Nutshell🥜 (@Markosonke1) March 4, 2025
WHAT DO YOU THINK OF HELEN ZILLE’S CHOICE OF CAR?
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