DA KZN Leadership Race Heats Up
The Democratic Alliance in KwaZulu‑Natal is getting ready for a new provincial leader. Two members have stepped forward to accept nominations: Sithembiso Ngema, the deputy provincial leader, and Mzamo Billy, a current member of the provincial legislature. The deadline for nominations is Monday, and so far they are the only ones who have said yes.
Who’s Running?
Sithembiso Ngema – DA’s deputy provincial leader. He says he feels honoured to be nominated and promises to work hard to grow the party ahead of the local government elections.
Mzamo Billy – Member of the provincial legislature. He has also accepted the nomination and is ready to serve if elected.
Current Leaders Stepping Aside
Some senior DA figures have decided not to run for the top provincial spot:
- Dean Macpherson, the current chairperson, wants to go back to that role instead.
- Martin Meyer, deputy chairperson, has accepted a nomination for the deputy leader position.
- Chris Pappas, mayor of Umngeni Local Municipality, is not interested in the provincial leader job.
The current provincial leader, Francois Rodgers (who is also the Finance MEC), has already announced that he will retire from politics soon.
What the Candidates Say
Speaking on Wednesday, Ngema shared his thoughts:
“I feel humbled for being nominated and grateful to those who trust me to lead our party in this important year of local government elections. I will fight tooth and nail to grow the party from strength to strength if elected.”
Billy has not made a public statement yet, but his acceptance shows he is ready to take on the challenge.
National DA Updates
While the KZN race unfolds, the DA recently held its Federal Congress in Midrand. About 2,400 delegates gathered to choose new national leaders.
New National Leader and Chairperson
Geordin Hill‑Lewis won the election for national leader, taking over from John Steenhuisen.
Solly Msimanga was elected as the federal chairperson, replacing Helen Zille.
Hill‑Lewis’ Vision
In his first speech, Hill‑Lewis praised his opponent, Sibusiso Dyonase, calling him a rising star. He said the party is entering a “new chapter” where the focus shifts from just opposing and governing locally to aiming for national power.
He believes the DA can become the largest party in national government and plans to expand its electoral base. Hill‑Lewis stresses that the DA will stay a strong, principled partner in government while opposing policies that hurt economic growth, property rights, or merit‑based appointments—what he calls “crony enrichment schemes.”
Conclusion
The DA in KwaZulu‑Natal is at a crossroads. With Ngema and Billy as the only confirmed candidates for provincial leader, the party members will soon decide who will guide them into the upcoming local government elections. At the same time, the national leadership under Hill‑Lewis and Msimanga is setting a bold direction for the DA’s future. The elective congress on May 9 in Durban will be a key moment to watch as the party shapes its path forward.
