Dyonase guns for Da’s top job
Sibusiso Dyonase, a 34-year-old councillor from Midvaal, has entered the race for DA federal leader, positioning himself as a champion for youth representation and inclusive leadership ahead of next month’s congress.
Sibusiso Dyonase (34), from Midvaal Local Municipality, is in the race to become the DA Federal Leader. Dyonase will challenge Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis to lead the DA in the upcoming federal congress, which is set for next month.
Speaking about his political journey, Dyonase says he was inspired by the lack of political interest and involvement by young people in his community.
“I saw the frustration of young people due to a lack of opportunities, like further education and training, and unemployment. That is where the desire arose to be involved in local politics as a voice for young people.”
Dyonase says he has always strived to be the voice of young people in local government.
“I joined the democratic alliance 2011, as I believe in equal opportunity for all, which resonated with me. I was elected as the branch chairperson at the age of 19. In the 2021 Local Government Elections, I was elected as a PR Councillor.”
He was subsequently elected as the DA Caucus deputy chairperson and also co-opted as the deputy DA Youth Regional chairperson for training and development from 2022 to 2024. Dyonase currently serves as DA Caucus Leader in Sedibeng District.
Revealing his plans, Dyonase says he will take the DA to the people. He will achieve this by being relatable and available. He aims to win an outright majority in the local government elections and roll out the DA’s good governance with a capable team of Councillors.
“Humility and the understanding that when we come together, we are much stronger and solution-oriented. What drives my passion to continue serving South African, especially at a higher level, is the realisation of inequality and injustice to the less privileged in the country. There is a need to cut the divide by advocating for equality and fairness for all.”
The DA Federal Leader candidate believes that now is the right time for a young, capable person to take on the leadership role to unite South Africa behind the DA.
“We need a leader who can resonate and articulate the values and policies of the organisation with ordinary South Africans. My nomination is a direct sign of my resilience. It is time that young people take up space in politics.”
Dyonase believes that this will put him at the forefront, where he will be directly involved in decision-making and policy-making for the benefit of all South Africans, especially youth.
