Geordin Hill-Lewis takes over the reins of the DA in leadership shake-up

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has entered a new era with the election of Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis as its new Federal Leader. Emerging victorious at the party’s historic Federal Congress 2026 in Midrand on Sunday, Hill-Lewis succeeds John Steenhuisen, who led the party through its transition into the Government of National Unity (GNU).

In a clean sweep for a "new generation" of leadership, Hill-Lewis is joined by Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga, who was elected Federal Chairperson, taking over from Helen Zille.

In a deeply reflective acceptance speech, the 39-year-old Hill-Lewis expressed his gratitude to the 2,400 delegates gathered at Gallagher Estate. He also praised his opponent, Sibusiso Dyonase, who challenged Hill-Lewis for the leadership of the party. He described him as a "rising star" whose "cool campaign" reflected the party's healthy internal democracy.

He framed his election not just as a promotion, but as a "deep sense of duty" to a country he believes is at a crossroads.

"However long I have the privilege of serving in this job, I will be dedicated to the mission of building a stronger South Africa for everyone," Hill-Lewis promised. "South Africa is worth it. We have a great country. And we are a great people."

Reflecting on his journey, from a schoolboy mesmerised by the "battle of ideas" between Tony Leon and Thabo Mbeki to founding the DA Students Organisation (DASO) at UCT, Hill-Lewis paid homage to the leaders who built the party's foundation. He specifically credited Helen Zille for shifting the DA from a party of "strong opposition" to one that "could govern."

The 2026 Congress, the largest in the DA's history, signalled a significant shift toward more youthful and diverse leadership as the party prepares for the upcoming local government elections.

The elected leaders are:

• Federal Leader - Geordin Hill-Lewis
• Federal Chairperson - Solly Msimanga
• 1st Deputy Federal Chair - Siviwe Gwarube
• 2nd Deputy Federal Chair - Cilliers Brink
• 3rd Deputy Federal Chair - Solly Malatsi
• Chairperson of Federal Council - Ashor Sarupen
• Chairperson of Federal Finance - Dr. Mark Burke

Hill-Lewis faces the unique challenge of leading the country’s second-largest party while it is a partner in the national coalition. He has confirmed that he will remain in his role as Mayor of Cape Town rather than moving to the National Assembly, intending to use the city as a "beacon of hope" for what the DA can achieve nationally.

To win the hearts of all South Africans, Hill-Lewis outlined four strategic pillars for his leadership:

• Demonstrated Governance: Continuing to show that where the DA governs, services happen and competent people are appointed.
• Principled Participation: Embracing the party's role in the GNU to make an impact, rather than just "drifting along quietly."
• Expansion: Turning the DA into a political home for those who feel "warm" toward the party but have yet to cast a vote for it.
• Institutional Maturity: Strengthening internal structures to ensure the party remains a robust alternative to the status quo.

"The ANC could be beaten," Hill-Lewis reminded the crowd, recalling his early days in student politics.

"That is the mission you have given me today. My answer is a resounding yes. Yes, we can."

karabo.ngoepe@inl.co.za