DA elects Christo Botha as city mayoral candidate

Current Deputy City Mayor, Christo Botha, will be contesting for a mayoral position in the City of uMhlathuze in the 2026 Local Government Elections.

The DA mayoral candidate was announced by KZN DA Leader Francois Rodgers on Saturday at the Greyville Racecourse in Durban.

Commenting on the nomination, Botha said, “This is not just a personal milestone for me. It’s a moment about service, responsibility and the future of our city.”

Talking about his role as a councillor for 14 years, Botha says, “I have walked the streets of our neighbourhoods, spoken to residents about their concerns, and worked with officials and councillors to resolve the everyday challenges that communities face.

“Our city is filled with hardworking people who simply want what every South African deserves: safe neighbourhoods, reliable services, economic opportunity and a municipality that works.”

Plans for the city
Botha explained that the City of uMhlathuze is one of the most important economic engines in KZN.

“We have a world-class deep-water port, expanding logistics and industrial sectors, growing commercial developments, and enormous potential to create jobs and attract investment…to unlock that potential, we need clean governance, competent administration and leadership that puts residents first.”

He notes this is the DA’s vision: to create a capable State ‘that is professional, accountable and focused on delivery’.

Core service delivery responsibilities must be prioritised, says Botha – something he will take on if elected mayor.

“Residents must be able to rely on a consistent water supply, properly maintained roads, functioning streetlights and reliable electricity infrastructure. We must protect and expand our local economy. The port expansion, industrial investment and new commercial developments present enormous opportunities.

“Our role as a municipality is to create an environment where businesses can grow, investors feel confident, and jobs are created,” he said.

Eliminating red tape to provide this environment is key, as well as restoring trust in local government, notes Botha.

“People must know that when they report a problem, the municipality listens and responds.

“Finally, we must build a city that works for every community. Whether you live in Richards Bay, Empangeni, Ngwelezane, eSikhaleni or our rural communities, the promise of good governance must reach you equally.”

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