SEDIBENG.- The DA recently awarded its mayoral candidate for Emfuleni Local Municipality (ELM), Kingsol Chabalala, as its Star Performer for 2026.

Outgoing Federal Leader, John Steenhuisen, presented the award during the party’s Federal Congress. In an interview with Sedibeng Ster, Chabalala said his passion for the community garnered him the award.

He noted that the award reminds him why he entered politics, saying he wants to improve people’s lives. “I was seeing the daily struggles of residents in Emfuleni. I realised that if we want things to change, people who care about their communities must step forward and lead. I joined the DA because it stands for clean governance, accountability and service delivery. I believed then, and still believe today, that the DA offers the best opportunity to bring real change to municipalities.”

Chabalala stated that along his journey, he learned that leadership requires resilience, accountability and the ability to listen.

“Communities want leaders who are present, who understand their challenges, and who are willing to make tough decisions to fix what is broken. I believe in handson leadership that focuses on accountability and results. Leadership should be visible, accessible and focused on solving problems.”

Talking about the award, Chabalala said that he is touched. “I am deeply honoured to have received the Star Performer Award at the DA Federal Congress. This recognition is not mine alone; it belongs to the incredible people who stand with me every day.”

He thanked his team in Emfuleni North, citing: “Your dedication, resilience, and hard work on the ground make everything we do possible. To my broader Vaal Region colleagues, thank you for your continued support, unity, and shared commitment to serving our communities.”

Chabalala expressed gratitude to his family for their unwavering encouragement and sacrifice, stating that they keep him grounded and motivate him.