DA stalwart Khume Ramulifho joins political upstart Rise Mzansi
Long-standing DA member Khume Ramulifho has resigned from the party - citing the opposition's failure to be inclusive.
Ramulifho, a member of the Gauteng provincial legislature, has been the party's voice on education issues, often highlighting the failures of the ANC in the province.
In his resignation letter, he says it was not an easy decision.
"This decision was not an easy one. I have built relationships with so many patriotic South Africans over the past 25 years. Thus far, I can proudly say that I have given my best in serving the people of this country.
“My commitment to improving the lives of our people and building a prosperous country remains unchanged.
“This journey started as a student when I joined the then-Democratic Party in 1998 and the Democratic Alliance in 2000.
“I served as student activist at the then Vaal Triangle Technikon, now called Vaal University of Technology.
“I had the honour of serving as the DA Youth Regional Chairperson, Gauteng Provincial Youth Leader and Federal Youth Leader. Moreover, I have proudly served as an elected representative of the people.
“In 2006, I was elected as a PR Councillor in the City of Johannesburg. I was then elected to serve in the Gauteng Provincial Legislature following the May 2009 Provincial and National General Elections, up until today," he said.
Ramulifho said he will join Rise Mzansi - a new political party founded earlier last year, led by Songezo Zibi, a former newspaper editor and co-founder of the Rivonia Circle think tank.
"I have played an active role in 10 elections contesting or campaigning for candidates at all spheres of government - Local, Provincial and National and many of which were successful. In one of the country's critical voting constituencies, Soweto, I recruited and trained members and activists.
Ultimately, there are many South Africans who want to see unity in purpose, and I strongly believe that RISE Mzansi is able to unite South Africans behind building the South Africa we all deserve, the kind of South Africa that the Constitution says it is our right to have and I will continue to fight for with the people of South Africa," said Ramulifho.
Ramulifho said he believes that it is possible to build an inclusive political alternative that will take South Africa forward.
"I believe that South Africa has the potential to succeed. We need to instil a culture of accountability and take responsibility. We need more people to be involved in decision-making.
“I have observed diverse South Africans raising their hands in support for RISE Mzansi," said Ramulifho
Rise Mzansi's national chairperson, Vuyiswa Ramokgopa, welcomed him to the party.
"On behalf of RISE Mzansi and the National Leadership Collective, I warmly welcome Khume to the organisation, and I look forward to working with him as we work to build the South Africa we all deserve.”
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