Patriotic Alliance (PA) deputy president Ashley Sauls has come out in defence of Water and Sanitation Minister Senzo Mchunu, urging him not to be swayed by public criticism or political pressure but to remain firm in his convictions. Sauls made the remarks during a public address on Tuesday, where he expressed solidarity with the minister amid ongoing debates surrounding water infrastructure failures and political accountability.
Don’t worry, Minister Mchunu, about your position. Don’t even worry about public opinion. Stand by your convictions,” Sauls said to loud applause from a crowd of supporters. “And whether the whole of South Africa hates me for saying it, I stand by my conviction.”
Sauls’ comments come at a time when Mchunu has faced mounting criticism over the country’s water challenges, including frequent supply disruptions and allegations of mismanagement in several municipalities. However, Sauls argued that leadership requires courage and consistency, not popularity. “True leadership is not about being liked—it’s about doing what’s right, even when it’s unpopular,” he stated.
The Patriotic Alliance, led by Gayton McKenzie, has positioned itself as a party that values strong leadership and accountability. Sauls said Mchunu had shown integrity in addressing water crises across provinces and deserved recognition rather than condemnation. “The minister has been on the ground, dealing with issues others only talk about. We must support those who serve with purpose, not destroy them because of political noise,” he said.
Political analysts noted that Sauls’ defence of an ANC minister was unusual, given the PA’s often combative stance towards the ruling party. However, Sauls insisted his remarks were not politically motivated but based on principle. “Convictions transcend party lines,” he said. “When someone is doing their job with honesty and effort, we should acknowledge it, regardless of affiliation.”
Mchunu, who has yet to respond publicly, has been overseeing key national water infrastructure projects aimed at stabilising supply to struggling municipalities. His tenure has been marked by both progress and controversy, with opposition parties accusing his department of slow delivery in certain regions.
Sauls concluded his speech by calling for a culture of mutual respect among leaders. “Let us stop tearing down every person trying to make a difference,” he said. “South Africa needs conviction-driven leadership, not constant political infighting.”
His statement has since sparked debate online, with supporters praising his boldness while critics accused him of political grandstanding.