The Democratic Alliance (DA) has kicked off its two-day elective conference this weekend in Midrand.
Image: Kamogelo Moichela / IOL Politics
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has opened its two-day elective conference at the Gallagher Convention Centre, setting in motion what insiders describe as a sweeping leadership overhaul with far-reaching consequences for the party’s future.
More than 2,000 delegates have converged for the high-pressure gathering, widely seen as a defining moment as the DA attempts to reset its direction and strengthen its position.
The conference follows the decision by outgoing leader John Steenhuisen not to seek re-election, creating space for a new leadership cohort and intensifying the stakes of the contest.
Party members arriving at the venue signalled readiness for change, with many framing the weekend as a critical turning point. “We are prepared for new leadership and a new chapter,” one delegate said.
Emerging figures such as Geordin Hill-Lewis, Sibusiso Dyonase and Ashor Sarupen are expected to play a central role in shaping the DA’s next phase, reflecting a broader generational shift within the party.
At the heart of the conference is a push to “future-proof” the organisation, tightening accountability, refining policy direction and positioning the DA as a credible government-in-waiting.
By the close of proceedings, the party is expected to unveil a reconfigured leadership.
IOL Politics