John Steenhuisen was named head of the Democratic Alliance (DA). He faced Mpho Phalatse, a former mayor of Johannesburg. Steenhuisen’s re-election means he will take the party to the general elections in 2024 and lead it for the next three years.
“When his party governs, there will be no load shedding,” John Steenhuisen declared after securing the role of DA leader.
“South Africa was fractured as a result of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s ineffective leadership, which prioritised the ANC’s interests over those of the nation,” he continued.
In contrast to rumours on social media, Phalatse stressed that she was still deciding on her next step inside the DA and would not be leaving for ActionSA when she spoke with the media after the conference.
“Since I had a good reason for raising my hand, I do feel let down. In this election before 2024I believed the Democratic Alliance had a good chance because of the ANC’s impending collapse. Even though I think we may have missed our chance here, I will support John and continue to promote diversity throughout the DA,” she said.
Other positions within the party include:
- Helen Zille, the party’s federal council chairperson, was re-elected unopposed.
- The three newly elected deputy chairpersons of the federal council are Thomas Walters, Annelie Lotriet and Ashor Sarupen who will be deputising for Zille.
- Ivan Meyer was re-elected as federal chairperson.
- The new three deputy chairpersons are Anton Bredell (third deputy). Solly Malatsi (second deputy) and JP Smith who was elected first deputy chairperson.
- Dion George was also re-elected, unopposed, as federal finance chairperson.