DA

The DA (Democratic Alliance) is South Africa's official opposition party and the second-largest political formation in the National Assembly. Formed in 2000 through a merger of the Democratic Party, the New National Party and the Federal Alliance, the DA positions itself as a liberal, multiracial alternative to the governing ANC. The party advocates for free-market economic policies, property rights, the rule of law, and what it terms a social-market economy that balances growth with social support. The DA has its strongest support base among white, coloured and Indian voters, though it has worked to broaden its appeal across racial lines with mixed success. The party governs the Western Cape province, where it has held power since 2009, and controls several major municipalities including Cape Town, where Geordin Hill-Lewis serves as mayor. Under successive leaders including Tony Leon, Helen Zille and John Steenhuisen, the DA has grown its national vote share from around 10% in the early 2000s to approximately 21% in the 2024 elections. The party has positioned itself as a champion of good governance and anti-corruption, frequently challenging the ANC government through parliamentary oversight and court action. Following the 2024 elections, the DA entered into a Government of National Unity with the ANC, a controversial decision that tested internal party cohesion. The party competes for opposition space with the Economic Freedom Fighters and uMkhonto weSizwe Party, both of which draw support from different segments of the electorate. The DA's policy platform emphasises job creation, investment in infrastructure, education reform and professionalisation of the public service.