Democratic Alliance (DA) KwaZulu-Natal chairperson Dean Macpherson on Thursday apologised to the Phoenix community and ordered the removal of controversial posters that have recently made headlines.

The DA has been criticised for cheap politicking after MacPherson authorised the erection of posters in Phoenix displaying the words, “The ANC called you racists. The DA calls you heroes”, in reference to the residents that took up arms during the July unrest to protect their communities from possible criminality.

Macpherson said the posters have “inadvertently caused offence”and apologised for the “hurt” caused.

He explained that the posters were unsanctioned by the DA leader John Steenhuisen, party structures and party campaign leadership.

“Sometimes in politics our words may be poorly chosen, but I wish to assure the public, without contradiction, that my intentions are always sincere. My intended message was that in the massive void created by a failing State, unable to secure South Africans’ homes and businesses during the riots, some heroic residents were forced to stand up and do what the police and army were unable to do. This action was met with allegations of racism from the African National Congress,” he said.

He added that the DA did not condone or support those who undertook vigilante actions.

Macpherson stressed that the DA is a party of non-racialism.

“I remain steadfastly committed to all people in South Africa, united in our diversity, and our campaign will continue to show South Africa that only the DA can and will get things done. My singular focus is to continue to guide KZN towards the election in three weeks' time,” he concluded.