Hotly-contested Western Cape could prove challenging for DA to retain

CAPE TOWN - It’s always said the Western Cape is a hotly-contested electoral battleground, but for the Democratic Alliance, holding on to a governing majority has never been this challenging. 

Its stance on the Middle East conflict could cost it at the ballot box, as the African National Congress A(NC) looks to capitalise on this to woo back the Muslim vote. 

But with new political players like Rise Mzansi and ActionSA also looking to make inroads, the DA could end up the biggest loser.

In what’s now become known as the blue province, 3.3 million people are registered to vote.

It’s the only province the ANC doesn’t govern, and the only one the DA does – making it the gold standard for its election campaigns in other provinces. 

Premier Alan Winde who cast his vote in the Cape Town CBD on Wednesday morning is looking for a second term, and to extend the DA’s control of this province to 20 years. 

However, several big hitters in the political arena will also be casting their ballot in the province including International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor, GOOD party leader Patricia de Lille and Patriotic Alliance leader Gayton Mckenzie. 

Mckenzie’s party could pose a real threat to the DA especially in the outlying areas where he’s captured the imagination of struggling coloured communities. 

Former ANC premier Ebrahim Rasool was also set to cast his vote and could also make a return to active politics - featuring on the ANC’s parliamentary list. 

Only one independent candidate, veteran activist Zackie Achmat is challenging traditional politics. 

READ: 'A historic election for independents', says Zackie Achmat

While the DA will be hoping it’s done enough to maintain the confidence of its loyal support base, for the others they have little to lose.