DA Midvaal mayoral candidate Peter Teixeira highlighted the role of the church in guiding public leaders and communities. Teixeira met with church members and residents during his recent visit to Five-Fold Ministries church in the Ramaphosa informal settlement in Rus-ter-Vaal.

Addressing guests, he said churches could assist politicians with values rooted in faith, honesty and accountability in serving residents.

“The church has a very important role to play in assisting us as politicians to serve our people with Godly values,” Teixeira said.

He cited that corruption and maladministration continue to harm communities, with ordinary residents often bearing the greatest burden.

Teixeira believes that faith-based institutions should help steer leaders towards serving the public interest rather than pursuing personal or political gain.

He told the congregation that he regularly reminds himself and members of his political team that their responsibility is to serve the people. He said leadership should not be about personal interests or political positions, but about improving lives.

He also pointed to the need for better services, job opportunities, education and a stronger local economy. Teixeira said young people are unemployed and need direction, while many residents have grown tired of political divisions.

“People want services, people want jobs, people want a strong economy, people want education,” he said, adding that political differences should be put aside so that leaders could focus on the well-being of communities.Teixeira expressed hope for residents of Ramaphosa and Emfuleni, saying he believed their lives could improve.

During the visit, Teixeira planted a tree at the church, symbolising growth and hope for the congregation and the wider community. He also spent time engaging with church members and residents of Ramaphosa.

He thanked church leaders, members of the Amadungwane Royal Family, and his family for their support.
Teixeira committed to serving people regardless of their political affiliation. “The people come first before the badge,” he said, calling for leaders to prioritise communities over party politics.