CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA — Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has declared his intention to lead the Democratic Alliance (DA), the second-largest party in South Africa’s ruling coalition. Hill-Lewis, who assumed office in 2021, is known for his effective management of the city, which is a popular tourist destination and is seen as one of the better-run municipalities in the country.
In an interview, the 39-year-old mayor emphasized his goal to “build a relationship of trust “with millions of South Africans who are not yet DA supporters. Hill-Lewis aims to narrow the gap between the DA and the broader electorate, assuring them of the party’s commitment to better governance for all South Africans, regardless of their background.
Hill — Lewis is facing competition from Sibusiso Dyonase for the leadership position. The leadership contest is scheduled to take place at a congress on April 11 and 12, a crucial event as the DA gears up for local elections later this year.
The election comes on the heels of the announcement by current DA chief John Steenhuisen that he would not seek a third term, opening the door for Hill — Lewis’s bid. Despite polling favorably, the DA, a center-right party, has yet to shake off its reputation as representing the white minority, a challenge Hill-Lewis acknowledges and aims to address.
Source: Africanews
