Geordin Hill-Lewis elected new DA federal leader, succeeding Steenhuisen
via The Citizen15 min read
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.
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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has launched an independent investigation into allegations that teaching posts within the department are being sold for money and sexual favors. The probe was initiated after a viral social media video surfaced, reportedly showing the wife of the department's head of communications, Muzi Mahlambi, accusing him of involvement in these activities. In the video, she claims female teachers either paid money or exchanged sexual favors to secure employment. Head of Department Nkosinathi Ngcobo ordered the independent investigation, emphasizing that the department views these allegations seriously as they impact public administration integrity and public trust. The department stated the investigation will be fair, credible, and impartial, considering all relevant evidence without fear or prejudice. They urged the public to provide any credible information to the investigating body or law enforcement authorities, committing to act decisively on the findings.
The MK party has defended its decision to appoint eThekwini's former mayor Zandile Gumede as the party's deputy convenor in KwaZulu-Natal, despite her ongoing trial for fraud, corruption, and money laundering related to a R320 million Durban Solid Waste tender. Gumede's appointment was announced at a press briefing in Durban. MK party secretary-general Sibonelo Nomvalo stated that the party is a political organization and not prosecutors, and therefore, criminal cases do not prevent a member from joining or taking a position. He added that questions about Gumede's legal issues are not relevant to her appointment. Political analyst Theo Neethling noted that Gumede's defection is significant because she remains on trial, and her charges did not hinder her acceptance by the MK party. Neethling suggests the party prioritizes electoral advantage and organizational strength over reputational risks, especially in securing metropolitan strongholds like eThekwini. This approach aligns with the party's narrative, which, given its leader Jacob Zuma's own legal challenges, often portrays criminal charges as politically motivated.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed South Africa鈥檚 condolences following the death of former Qatari Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away on Sunday, 12 July 2026, at 74 years old. Ramaphosa described Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader whose "legacy of peace, prosperity and global influence continues to inspire the world." He extended sympathies to Qatar's Royal Family, government, and people, highlighting South Africa's close friendship with Qatar. Ramaphosa noted that Qatar, under Sheikh Hamad's leadership, became a model of peace, development, prosperity, and global influence. Sheikh Hamad's 18-year rule saw Qatar transform from an economy reliant on oil to the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, with one of the highest per capita incomes, achieved through strategic investment in productive assets, financial institutions, infrastructure, and human capital.