Geordin Hill-Lewis elected new DA federal leader, succeeding Steenhuisen

Geordin Hill-Lewis has been elected as the new federal leader of the Democratic Alliance DA at the party's federal congress held at Gallagher Estate in Midrand, north of Johannesburg, on April 12, 2026. Hill-Lewis, who currently serves as the mayor of Cape Town, succeeds John Steenhuisen. Solly Msimanga, DA Gauteng leader, was also elected as the party's federal chairperson, the second most powerful position. Hill-Lewis acknowledged past DA leaders in his acceptance speech and outlined a four-step plan to grow the party. This plan includes demonstrating effective governance where the DA is in power, connecting more deeply with all South Africans, becoming a strong and principled partner in national and co-governing administrations, and fostering belief in South Africa among all DA members. Political studies and governance research fellow Theo Neethling from the University of Free State highlighted challenges for Hill-Lewis, such as addressing racial and voter perceptions, navigating coalition politics, balancing liberal principles with popular policy approaches, strengthening internal party unity, and expanding the party's geographical reach beyond the Western Cape. Steenhuisen stated that he leaves the DA in a stronger position than he found it in 2019 and will now focus on his ministry in government while supporting the new leadership.