Helen Zille Confirmed as DA’s Mayoral Candidate for Johannesburg in 2026

SOWETO, JOHANNESBURG, 20 Sept 2025 - The Democratic Alliance (DA) has officially confirmed Helen Zille as its mayoral candidate for Johannesburg in the upcoming 2026 Local Government Elections. The announcement was made at a party gathering in Johannesburg, where Zille accepted the nomination with a passionate speech directed at both party members and the people of the city.

Addressing supporters, Zille expressed deep personal ties to Johannesburg, recalling her upbringing, education, and early career in the city. She described herself as “a daughter of Johannesburg,” emphasizing her lifelong connection to its people and history.

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Zille painted a picture of Johannesburg’s decline over the past three decades, citing failing infrastructure, hijacked buildings, service delivery collapse, and rising crime as symptoms of “bad government.” She warned that many residents now see the city as a place to flee, rather than a place of opportunity.

“Joburg is South Africa’s most devastating example of what bad government can do to great people,” Zille said, pointing to potholes, illegal dumping, water shortages, and power cuts as daily struggles for residents.

However, Zille struck an optimistic tone, insisting that change was possible if citizens used their democratic power. “The good news is that in a democracy, the people have more power than their government if they will only use it. They can vote for change. They can evict a bad government and demand better,” she declared.

In her speech, Zille also referenced recent remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who admitted that DA-led municipalities often outperform their ANC counterparts in delivering services. “With perfect timing, President Ramaphosa this week showed the boldness we’ve all been waiting for… he told South Africa that the DA’s election offer is better than the ANC’s,” Zille said to loud applause.

She outlined her vision for Johannesburg, stressing the need for ethical, professional city administration, proper service delivery, and accountability in government. According to Zille, the DA’s model of governance offers a “better way” that prioritizes water, electricity, roads, and other basic services essential for dignity and progress.

“Local government isn’t about ideology and grand ideals. It is about grand responsibility,” she said. “In a local government election, the only question voters should ask is this: Who will do the job best?”

Zille closed her address with a call to action, vowing to take her campaign to every corner of Johannesburg—from Alexandra to Soweto, Sandton to Orange Farm, Hillbrow to Lenasia, and beyond. “We will not let Joburg’s taps stay dry. We won’t accept brokenness as the new norm. We will wrestle our city back from the criminal mafia and return her to those who love her,” she promised.

Concluding with an appeal for unity and renewal, Zille declared: “Together we can make the city of gold shine on our country, our continent, and the world.”