DA elects new leader for KZN

VOTERS have decided that eThekwini Councillor and caucus leader, Zwakele Mncwango will be the new Democratic Alliance (DA) KZN Provincial Leader.

This was the decision taken at the party’s 2015 Provincial Congress, which was held at the ZCBF grounds on Saturday.

More than 1000 political members showed up to the event.

Zwakele beat his opposition, Sizwe Mchunu, by only five additional votes.

‘I am grateful I get to take the baton from such a credible leader. It was very close, which shows how democracy is strengthening in the DA. Zwakele is not a winner today, the DA is a winner,’ Mncwango said.

Further to this election was the unexpected public debate challenge which the DA’s Federal Chairperson, Wilmot James posed to Parliamentary Leader, Mmusi Maimane.

Wilmot said, ‘I wish to challenge Mmusi Maimane to a national debate on issues about this country.’

He went on to note that the party needs to take a new direction and they should address issues affecting the poor.

The two will go head to head next month, as they are both vying for the leadership of the party.

‘We have already lined up four debates. I have nothing to fear. I am ready,’ Maimane said in response.

The new leader of the DA will be selected on 10 May, at the party’s federal congress.

The new DA KZN Leadership:

Provincial leader – Zwakele Mncwango

Deputy Provincial Leader – Mergan Chetty

Provincial Chairperson – Hannif Hoosen

First Deputy Chair – Tex Collins

Second Deputy Chair – Dianne Kohler Barnard

Third Deputy Chair – Shehana Gaibie