By Amy Musgrave
The Democratic Alliance held a high-level meeting this weekend to chart its way forward to the 2026 local government elections.
DA leader John Steenhuisen said on Sunday that the extended federal executive meeting in Cape Town was attended by the party’s national and provincial leadership, as well as senior staff from across the country.
He said in a statement that the gathering came at a time when the DA was stronger and more unified than ever.
The party made serious inroads in the general elections in May this year, with the African National Congress losing its majority.
“The DA remains positive that it will continue its winning streak and is poised to secure even more metros and municipalities in the upcoming election. Based on the 2024 results, we can emerge as the biggest party in major metros,” said Steenhuisen.
“The successes of the 2024 election have set the DA on a powerful trajectory. We are more determined than ever to expand our footprint in 2026, which will further solidify our position to lead nationally and provincially in 2029.”
The meeting thoroughly explored the current state of the South African political landscape, focusing on election opportunities, potential threats and meticulous preparations for the campaign ahead.
Federal council chairperson Helen Zille led the discussions on the party’s objectives and strategies, ensuring that the DA was well positioned to build on its successes.
“With increasing support in national polls and a renewed sense of purpose, the DA is fully prepared to tackle the challenges ahead and lead South Africa toward a brighter future in 2026 and beyond,” Steenhuisen said.
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