DA
The DA (Democratic Alliance) is South Africa's official opposition party and the second-largest political formation in the National Assembly. Formed in 2000 through a merger of the Democratic Party, the New National Party and the Federal Alliance, the DA positions itself as a liberal, multiracial alternative to the governing ANC. The party advocates for free-market economic policies, property rights, the rule of law, and what it terms a social-market economy that balances growth with social support. The DA has its strongest support base among white, coloured and Indian voters, though it has worked to broaden its appeal across racial lines with mixed success. The party governs the Western Cape province, where it has held power since 2009, and controls several major municipalities including Cape Town, where Geordin Hill-Lewis serves as mayor. Under successive leaders including Tony Leon, Helen Zille and John Steenhuisen, the DA has grown its national vote share from around 10% in the early 2000s to approximately 21% in the 2024 elections. The party has positioned itself as a champion of good governance and anti-corruption, frequently challenging the ANC government through parliamentary oversight and court action. Following the 2024 elections, the DA entered into a Government of National Unity with the ANC, a controversial decision that tested internal party cohesion. The party competes for opposition space with the Economic Freedom Fighters and uMkhonto weSizwe Party, both of which draw support from different segments of the electorate. The DA's policy platform emphasises job creation, investment in infrastructure, education reform and professionalisation of the public service.
DA Updates
Ramaphosa pledges illegal immigration crackdown, promises economic growth push 
By: Thabi Shomolekae 8th June 2026 Following his Sunday night announcement that government is taking decisive action to tackle illegal immigration, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on... →
DA seeks Debate of National Importance, after Ramaphosa fails to release Water Crisis Action Plan
5th June 2026 Yesterday, the President missed the deadline to publicly release the National Water Crisis Action Plan. Following the President's repeated... →
My Vote Counts warns Rise Mzansi’s R30m donation exposes flaws in Party Funding Act
By: Thabi Shomolekae 5th June 2026 Civil society group My Vote Counts argues that Rise Mzansi’s R30-million loan conversion highlights major flaws in the Political Party Funding Act,... →
DA requests IEC investigation over ANC-Russia ‘disinformation network’
By: Thabi Shomolekae 4th June 2026 The DA has formally requested that the Independent Electoral Commission launch an immediate investigation into ANC secretary-general Fikile Mbalula... →
DA-led Ekurhuleni Metro Police oversight greeted by empty offices
3rd June 2026 An oversight visit to the Edenvale Ekurhuleni Metro Police Department (EMPD), I led yesterday, was welcomed by - nothing. The DA-led oversight... →
SA: Khumbudzo Ntshavheni: Address by Minister in The Presidency, on the occasion of The Presidency Budget Vote 2026/2027, National Assembly (02/06/2026)
3rd June 2026 his represents an increase of 7.1% from the previous financial year. This increase ensures that we have the necessary capacity to drive the... →
Daily Podcast – June 02, 2026
By: Reza Creamer 2nd June 2026 Making headlines: Liam Jacobs apologises for ‘disgraced departure’ from DA; S&P flags Middle East oil risk for South Africa; And, World Health... →
Liam Jacobs apologises for ‘disgraced departure’ from DA, slams 'ANC cheerleader' PA
By: Thabi Shomolekae 2nd June 2026 In a political turnaround, former PA member Liam Jacobs has officially returned to the DA, issuing a public apology on Tuesday for his... →
Daily Podcast – June 01, 2026
By: Reza Creamer 1st June 2026 Making headlines: RISE Mzansi’s Makashule Gana will lead impeachment committee; ANC Women’s League President steps down amid disciplinary actions;... →
DA tackles illegal number plates, calling for Creecy, Tau and Cachalia to act
1st June 2026 The DA has written to Ministers Tau, Creecy and Acting Minister Cachalia to urgently establish an inter-ministerial task team to deal with a... →
