The Democratic Alliance (DA) has kicked off its federal congress, with outgoing Federal Council chairperson and Johannesburg mayoral candidate Helen Zille promising a transparent and fair election of new party leaders. Addressing over 2,000 delegates at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Zille said the party’s commitment to open debate and fair contestation would ensure a bribery-free and coercion-free election process.
According to Zille, the DA’s culture of open debate and respect for differing opinions would continue to guide the party’s decision-making processes. “If you don’t win an argument or an election in the DA, you are not punished. You are respected for putting yourself out there as long as you do so with integrity,” she said. This approach, Zille added, was essential to the party’s growth and success, as it allowed members to learn from their failures and come back stronger.
DA’s Growth and Ambitions
The DA is on course to become the largest party in the country’s metropolitan municipalities by the end of the year, Zille said. The party’s ultimate goal, she added, was to become the biggest party in South Africa, with the slogan “Woza 2029” reflecting this ambition. As noted on the DA’s official website, the party’s mission is to build a country where every citizen has a fair shot, regardless of their background.
Outgoing federal leader John Steenhuisen, who took over in 2019, said the party had made significant progress under his leadership. When he inherited the party, it was polling at 16% and was divided, but it has since grown and become more influential. Steenhuisen expressed his pride in the party’s achievements, saying, “We are no longer a regional party or a perpetual opposition. We are a national force for reform – a party in government that is already making South Africa work better.” For more information on the DA’s history and policies, visit Wikipedia.
Candidates for Federal Leader
The contest for the DA’s federal leadership is between Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis and the party’s Sedibeng caucus leader Sibusiso Dyonase. The election is expected to be closely contested, with both candidates having a strong track record of service to the party. Here are some key facts about the candidates:
- Geordin Hill-Lewis: Current Mayor of Cape Town, with a focus on good governance and service delivery.
- Sibusiso Dyonase: Sedibeng caucus leader, with experience in local government and community development.
The outcome of the election will be crucial in determining the direction of the DA and its prospects for future growth and success.
