DA dismisses reports of an early federal congress as speculation

CAPE TOWN - The Democratic Alliance (DA) has dismissed as speculation reports that it could bring forward its federal congress at which it will elect its next leader.

The party’s national chairperson, Ivan Meyer, said the party would stick to its constitution to hold its next congress in April 2026.

Reports of an earlier congress have been fueled by claims that leader John Steenhuisen's support among blue members is dwindling.

He's currently serving a second three-year term as the party’s leader.

After serving as a fierce chief whip to former leader, Mmusi Maimane, Steenhuisen swept to victory at the party’s 2020 congress six months after Maimane quit the party, after being criticised for poor electoral performance.

Steenhuisen was re-elected at the party’s 2023 congress and has led the party into a Government of National Unity, where he also serves as agriculture minister.

Whether Steenhuisen sees out a five-year term in this pact will depend on whether he can muster a third term at the next congress.

Meyer said important event dates for the next two years had already been determined.

"Media speculation about an early DA federal congress is unfounded and frankly, unconstitutional. It is my task and the responsibility to comply with the constitutional timelines. I'm determined to stick to these timelines and comply with my constitutional responsibilities in this regard."

The DA's constitution also prescribes that a policy conference be held at least a year before a general election.