DA aims to govern more municipalities
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has vowed to expand its control of municipalities in South Africa’s upcoming local government elections, with party leaders stating that the DA is no longer content with governing in selected parts of the country.
DA federal chairperson and Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga made this declaration at the party’s manifesto launch at Mary Fitzgerald Square in Johannesburg on Saturday.
Msimanga said the party’s growth from a small opposition party to a major political force had been driven by its opposition to corruption and poor service delivery.
They had positioned themselves as an alternative to the ANC by challenging government decisions they believed were not in the interests of ordinary South Africans.
For instance, when the president wanted to buy a jet, the DA said, “But no, people are waiting for jobs.”
Msimanga said the party’s focus was ultimately on creating an environment in which people could access jobs and live better lives.
He explained that when services go to the people, more jobs are created, and people are able to live a comfortable life.
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The DA leader challenged voters to consider the legacy they wanted to leave for future generations.
Msimanga stated that voters should think about the kind of country, city, ward, and municipality they will leave for the next generation.
Geordin Hill-Lewis, the DA leader, has ambitions for the party to become the biggest in South Africa, driven by its desire to improve governance and service delivery.
The party’s role is shifting from opposition to government, with Msimanga stating, “We are no longer a party of opposition, we are a party in government.”
In urban centers of South Africa, the DA is already the biggest party, and this comes with responsibilities.
The DA’s manifesto is a contract between the party and voters, with Msimanga saying that DA-led municipalities should be judged against the promises made during the election campaign.
They cannot fail the people of South Africa and will deliver on their promises.
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The DA wants political debate to focus less on divisive issues and more on economic growth, jobs, and effective municipalities.
Msimanga urged party supporters to take the manifesto into communities and use it to make the case for DA governance.
They will be judged by their ability to deliver services and stay accountable to voters.
Msimanga concluded by calling on DA supporters to campaign on the party’s record and manifesto, saying, “There is a government that is ready to deliver.”
It’s time to turn municipalities around, get services going, and create jobs for the people.
The party’s goal is to create a better life for all South Africans.
