Mayor of Cape Town announces bid for DA party leadership

Leadership Change in the Democratic Alliance

On Friday, it was announced by the mayor of Cape Town, Geordin Hill-Lewis, that he is running for the leadership of the Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa's second-largest party. The current leader, John Steenhuisen, has declared he will not seek a third term. This development follows Steenhuisen's earlier announcement this month about stepping down, marking a significant shift ahead of the local elections later this year.

Geordin Hill-Lewis, who became mayor in 2021, stated, "I today announce that I am standing to be the next leader of the Democratic Alliance." His tenure as mayor is noted for being in one of the better-managed municipalities in the country.

Under Hill-Lewis's potential leadership, the DA aims to demonstrate effective governance, as exemplified in Cape Town. The party, recognized for its pro-business stance, joined a 10-party coalition after the general elections in 2024, boosting confidence in South Africa. However, the DA has faced internal controversies during Steenhuisen's leadership.

The DA is attempting to attract voters dissatisfied with the African National Congress (ANC) following its loss of a 30-year majority in the 2024 national elections. The ANC has been criticized for governance issues, leading to its coalition with the DA. Despite promoting a liberal, free-market agenda, the DA continues to address perceptions of representing the white minority.

Hill-Lewis emphasized the need for change, stating, "Too often, people see us as distant. They feel that we speak at them, not with them. If we are going to grow, we must change that."

Based on reporting by Africanews.