The DA in the North-West has made some key leadership changes ahead of the 2026 Local Government Elections, with the election of Freddy Sonakile as the new provincial leader.

Sonakile (35) will be at the helm of a young and driven leadership team consisting of Luan Snyders (Deputy Provincial Leader), Carin Visser (Provincial Chairperson), Erna Rossouw (Deputy Provincial Chairperson) and CJ Steyl (Provincial Finance Chairperson).

This announcement was made at the 2026 NW Provincial Congress held at Feather Hill in Potchefstroom on Saturday, 7 February.

Numerous leaders, delegates and ward councillors attended the event. A voting process was also undertaken to establish the new leadership.

Sonakile mentioned that being elected is an honour. He also emphasised that the DA in North-West has reached a turning point.

“Today is not a personal victory. It is a victory for unity and renewal. There is no black or white DA. There is one united DA. This is a victory for every activist who knocks on doors, every councillor who serves their community and every members who believes this province deserves better.”

Sonakile says the DA is a serious political force that needs to move from growth to breakthrough and opposition into governance.

“Leadership is about service, presence and humility. As provincial leader I will get myself dirty. I am going to stand shoulder to shoulder with activists. Trust is built through visible leadership. We will function as one leadership team.”

Sonakile also states that winning JB Marks outright is possible, but that hard work on the ground will be needed. This includes community presence, disciplined organisation, united structures and strong candidates.

“No community is unwinnable and no voter is unreachable. Every South African deserves to hear our message.”