The Democratic Alliance (DA) re-elected John Steenhuisen for a three-year term as its leader in South Africa on Sunday. He won 83% of votes to beat his opponent, former Johannesburg executive mayor Mpho Phalatse who gained 17%. As the party gears up to challenge the ruling African National Congress (ANC) at next year’s national elections, the DA looks forward to its new leadership under Steenhuisen.
In his acceptance speech, Steenhuisen said the DA will work with other “like-minded parties” ahead of the 2024 elections. He said the DA would be a “constructive opposition” and work with the government where it can. But he said the party would also hold the government to account.
He, however, ruled out working with the ruling ANC and the smaller opposition party, the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in the upcoming elections, stating his intentions to focus on working within their numbers for a clear victory, as he is committed to unifying his party and securing a successful outcome in next year’s elections.
In November 2019, following the resignation of Mmusi Maimane, former DA leader, Steenhuisen succeeded as leader of the party. Meanwhile, President Cyril Ramaphosa will be pursuing reelection for the ANC, whose public reception has declined in recent years.