Ivan Meyer declares bid for re-election as DA’s Federal Chairperson – SABC News

Democratic Alliance Federal Chairperson, Dr Ivan Meyer, has declared his candidacy for re-election.
The party will hold its Federal Congress in Gauteng from April 11- 12, where a new federal leader, a federal chairperson and three deputy federal chairpersons will be elected.
Speaking at his campaign launch in Paarl, Meyer outlined his priorities ahead of the 2026 Local Government and 2029 general elections.
He highlighted concerns about weakening institutions and a growing gap between citizens and the state.
“Too many citizens experience broken services, failing municipalities and a government that has lost the trust of its people. Our country needs a fresh start in South Africa. We must restore trust in public institutions, fix broken systems and put citizens ahead of petty politics. We must create jobs through economic growth, support small businesses and ensure law and order. We must also rescue our failing municipalities and restore reliable services. Today I am ready to serve, ready to lead and I’m ready for this Congress.”
Meanwhile, the DA’s Joburg mayoral candidate Helen Zille says that the City of Johannesburg is failing because of corruption, incompetence and years of political chaos.
She spoke at the launch of her mayoral candidacy manifesto at the Johannesburg City Hall. This as the country and political parties gear up for the local government elections later this year.
Zille told DA supporters that the city is falling apart because the current multi-party government doesn’t care.
“Broken pipes, there are more than 57 000 of them, which are reported every year. Potholes, more than 100 000 potholes that are destroying our cars. A corrupt billing system that robs hard-working people because it is so broken and so full of corruption. And the worst part? Those running the city don’t have a plan to fix it. In fact, they have given up on fixing it.”

The energy is building in Johannesburg! Hundreds of DA activists and members are gathered as Helen Zille launches her pledges to get Johannesburg working. A clear plan to secure the future of SA’s economic capital.
Watch live: pic.twitter.com/FOuGdmYioW
— Democratic Alliance (@Our_DA) March 7, 2026

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