Hill-Lewis takes DA helm

by AKANI CHUKE 
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – THE Democratic Alliance (DA) has unveiled its newly elected leadership following its 2026 Federal Congress, marking a significant moment for the party as it prepares for pivotal local government elections later this year.

Held over the weekend in Johannesburg, Gauteng, the congress was described by party officials as the largest in the DA’s history, reflecting both its organisational growth and its ambitions to strengthen its political footing nationwide.

Delegates from across the country participated in the internal democratic process, electing a new leadership team tasked with steering the party into the next electoral cycle.

At the helm, Geordin Hill-Lewis was elected Federal Leader, a result widely seen as positioning the party to consolidate its urban strongholds while expanding its appeal to a broader electorate.

In his acceptance remarks, Hill-Lewis said: “This Congress was the largest in the history of the DA and reflects both the continued growth of the DA and its institutional maturity as it prepares for the year ahead.”

He also acknowledged the role of party members, adding: “We thank all delegates for their participation, their compliance with the rules of our internal democracy, which remains healthy, strong and vibrant.”

The position of Federal Chairperson was secured by Solly Msimanga, a seasoned leader expected to play a central role in strengthening party structures and mobilising support on the ground.

Following his election, Msimanga emphasised unity and readiness for the electoral battles ahead, stating: “We extend our congratulations to all duly elected candidates.”

The DA also announced its Deputy Federal Chairpersons, with Siviwe Gwarube elected as First Deputy, Cilliers Brink as Second Deputy, and Solly Malatsi as Third Deputy.

In the Federal Council, Ashor Sarupen emerged as Chairperson, supported by deputies JP Smith, Thomas Walters and Carl Pophaim.

Sarupen echoed the party’s official message of unity, saying: “We thank all delegates for their participation, their compliance with the rules of our internal democracy, which remains healthy, strong and vibrant.”

Meanwhile, Dr Mark Burke was elected Chairperson of Federal Finance, rounding out the leadership team.

The outcomes of the congress are expected to have far-reaching implications for the DA’s electoral strategy.

With local government elections looming, the party is likely to focus on governance delivery, anti-corruption messaging, and expanding its voter base beyond traditional support areas.

Hill-Lewis’s leadership, combined with Msimanga’s organisational experience, signals an emphasis on disciplined campaigning and policy-driven engagement.

The strengthened leadership bench is also expected to sharpen the DA’s competitiveness against rival parties, particularly in key metros where service delivery remains a critical issue.

As the DA turns its attention to the campaign trail, the newly elected leadership faces the dual challenge of maintaining internal cohesion while presenting a compelling alternative to voters.

The party’s performance in the upcoming elections will serve as a key test of both its renewed leadership and its broader political strategy.

– CAJ News