Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube has confirmed her candidacy for the position of deputy federal chairperson of the Democratic Alliance (DA), announcing her decision on social media on Monday.
Gwarube said she had accepted the nomination and was ready to serve, adding that the party must grow its support base to become the largest political force in South Africa.
In her post, she stressed the need for strong organisational leadership to expand the DA’s footprint across provinces and communities, arguing that this would be key to delivering the change she believes the country requires.
Her announcement comes ahead of the party’s Federal Congress, scheduled for 11 and 12 April in Johannesburg, where delegates will elect new leadership.
The congress will also mark the end of John Steenhuisen’s tenure as federal leader after he confirmed he will not seek re-election.
Among those vying to succeed him is Geordin Hill-Lewis, the mayor of Cape Town.
Meanwhile, Ashor Sarupen, the deputy finance minister from KwaZulu-Natal, is contesting the position of federal council chairperson as incumbent Helen Zille steps down. Sarupen will face competition from Solly Msimanga, the DA’s Gauteng chairperson. Sarupen currently serves as deputy chairperson of the federal council.
With multiple senior figures entering the race, the party’s upcoming congress is shaping up to be a pivotal moment as the DA seeks to chart its next chapter.