Phalatse says ready to lead, Steenhuisen sets sights on ANC downfall

Mpho Phalatse and John Steenhuisen outlined their vision to almost 2 000 delegates attending the DA’s federal congress in Midrand, ahead of the leadership vote on Sunday.

Phalatse, who joined the party in 2015 and held an MMC position in the City of Johannesburg before becoming mayor in 2021, addressed concerns over her experience in leadership positions.

“I wish to state categorically without fear of contradiction; it’s not the length of time in a party that determines one’s effectiveness, it’s not the number of years that counts. It’s about capability, experience and qualification.

"Jacob Zuma was a horrible president with all his years in the ANC, yet Barack Obama with much fewer years in his party was one of the best presidents America ever had.”

LISTEN: Who will lead the DA? Phalatse, Steenhuisen face off at watershed congress

Phalatse lost the mayoral chain after just 11 months at the helm. But, she said leading the multi-party government in the metro is exactly what makes her a suitable candidate, should the ANC fail to garner an outright majority in the general elections. 

“We need leaders with experience in both politics and governance to keep our governments afloat and protect them from avoidable instability."

On the other hand, Steenhuisen made seven pledges anchored on dethroning the ANC. These include ending load shedding, reducing unemployment, building a capable state and devolving power to provincial and local governments.

“It’s time now for the DA to ascend to national and provincial government around the country. That’s why all other pledges in my manifesto are anchored in this one priority; we must bring the ANC below 50%, and we the DA must form the core of a new majority in South Africa.” 

Steenhuisen, who is seen as a favourite among the party’s old guard, told journalists that he will make a "big announcement" should he be chosen to lead the DA for another four years.