President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has criticized the main opposition party for featuring a burning national flag in one of its election adverts.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) defended the image, stating it aimed to highlight the country's challenges.

While burning the flag isn't illegal, President Ramaphosa called it an "abuse" and argued it undermines national unity.

Campaigning ahead of the May 29 general election has become increasingly contentious.

In the advert, as the flag ignites, a voice warns of worsening conditions under the African National Congress (ANC) rule since 1994.

The flag then returns to its original form, symbolizing hope if voters support the DA.

Some South Africans criticized the DA for using the flag in this manner.

President Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of free speech but stressed that it should be exercised respectfully to avoid social unrest.

Acknowledging the country's challenges, Mr. Ramaphosa highlighted the progress made since the end of apartheid.

DA leader John Steenhuisen defended the advert, calling it a symbolic representation of South Africa's potential future under the DA.