The Democratic Alliance (DA) has began its two-day Federal Congress today, Saturday, 11 April, at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand.
More than 2,000 delegates from across South Africa are expected to gather for what the party describes as its largest congress to date. The key item on the agenda is the election of new federal leadership, including the positions of Federal Leader and Federal Chairperson.
Incumbent leader John Steenhuisen is not seeking re-election. Among the frontrunners for Federal Leader are Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis and Sedibeng councillor Sibusiso Dyonase. The congress will also elect a new Federal Chairperson, with contenders including Western Cape MEC Ivan Meyer and Tshwane Mayor Solly Msimanga.
The gathering comes just months ahead of the local government elections scheduled for November 2026. Delegates are expected to debate and finalize policy positions as the DA positions itself within the Government of National Unity while preparing its campaign strategy for the polls.
The event is being closely watched as a signal of the party’s direction in the lead-up to the municipal vote. Proceedings continue on Sunday.