DA federal congress to debate policies aimed at improving lives of South African voters

Kabous Le Roux

Kabous Le Roux

9 April 2026 | 11:05

South African voters are in focus as the DA’s federal congress debates policies, leadership and governance, with key decisions expected to shape the party’s direction.

DA federal congress to debate policies aimed at improving lives of South African voters

A Democratic Alliance’s (DA) voter in Durban on 11 May 2024. Picture: Xanderleigh Dookey Makhaza/Eyewitness News

South African voters are at the centre of discussions as the Democratic Alliance’s federal congress gets underway this weekend.

Party delegates are meeting to debate a series of policy proposals, constitutional amendments and internal reforms expected to shape the DA’s direction.

Policies aimed at improving lives

Congress spokesperson Luyolo Mphithi said multiple resolutions have been tabled, with a strong focus on governance and service delivery.

“We will have quite a robust engagement… ensuring that the values that we subscribe to are reaffirmed,” said Mphithi.

He added that several proposals deal directly with how government can function better for South Africans, with the stated aim of improving lives.

Leadership to guide direction

South African voters are also watching closely as the party prepares to elect a new federal leader on Sunday.

The incoming leader is expected to set the tone on key issues, including the DA’s stance within the Government of National Unity (GNU).

Mphithi declined to speculate on that position, saying decisions would depend on the vision of the new leader.

What happens over the weekend

The Federal Council began sitting on Friday morning, where outgoing federal leader John Steenhuisen is delivering his final remarks.

Federal Council chairperson Helen Zille is also expected to address delegates before the party votes on council members.

Results from those votes will be announced on Sunday.

Internal decisions and possible changes

The congress will also deal with internal party processes and structures, with delegates tasked with making decisions on the DA’s day-to-day operations.

While speculation remains around possible leadership changes or reshuffles, Mphithi said those decisions rest with the newly elected leader.

For now, the focus remains firmly on policies and leadership choices that could shape the party’s approach to South African voters.

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For more information, listen to Mphithi on 702/Capetalk using the audio player below:

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