Tributes have been pouring in for James Selfe, the former Democratic Alliance (DA) Federal Chairperson. He passed away yesterday at the age of 68 after battling a prolonged illness. Former colleagues and politicians have described him as a pioneer and a true democrat.
Selfe was born in Pretoria on August 23, 1955. He attended the prestigious Diocesan College, commonly known as Bishops, in Cape Town, and then went on to study at the University of Cape Town. After graduating, Selfe joined the ranks of the Progressive Federal Party, which was a forerunner to the DA, and rose in its ranks, eventually becoming its executive director in 1992.
He was elected to South Africa’s first democratic Parliament in 1994 and played a key role in drafting the country’s initial constitution. During his time in Parliament, Selfe was involved in various committees, particularly those related to Justice and Correctional Affairs. Additionally, he held the position of Chair of the DA’s Federal Council for nearly 20 years until his resignation in 2019. DA leader John Steenhuisen has described Selfe as a pioneer and unsung hero of South Africa’s democracy.
“He was one of the first politicians in post-democratic history to begin the work of opposing the unfettered power of the ANC majority and to turn South Africa into a living, breathing democracy, where the opposition took up its role as society’s ultimate watchdog. This vital development cannot be understated in a country where accountability is so worryingly evaded. James set the example for many of us in the DA, and we will continue this work for our country in his memory,” said Steenhuisen.
In 2021, Selfe testified before the Zondo Commission about corruption in Correctional Services in his capacity as the DA’s Shadow Minister for Correctional Services. He spoke of the challenges of Parliamentary oversight, particularly by Committees among others. In the same year, Selfe retired from the National Assembly, receiving tributes from parties across the political spectrum.
The DA Chief Whip, Siviwe Gwarube, expressed that the departure of the mentioned individual will be deeply felt. Gwarube admired the individual for always recognizing the value in younger politicians, showing support, and maintaining an open and keen mind to understand the political dynamic. The individual was known for embracing young leaders within the organization.
Various political parties have also paid tribute to Selfe, with Rise Mzansi describing him as a true patriot and constitutionalist.
The ACDP has lamented the loss, saying he was one of the most hard-working and dedicated Parliamentarians.
ActionSA has called Selfe a pioneer of opposition politics.
The IFP’s National Spokesperson Mkhuleko Hlengwa, “Honorable Selfe was a dedicated public servant having spent most of his life serving the people of South Africa with distinction. His commitment to serving South Africans in Parliament for over two decades will be remembered fondly by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him. Honorable Selfe’s contributions to the opposition political landscape were significant and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of leaders.”
Selfe is survived by his wife and three daughters.
