Mmusi Maimane to succeed Zille?
JOBURG – Political analyst says sudden move to step down is DA’s strategy to gain votes.
Lobbying for the DA Helen Zille’s head position has already begun, following her announcement on 12 April, stating she would be stepping down.
According to senior political analyst for Political Analysis South Africa Siya Binyiza, DA’s Parliamentary leader Mmusi Maimane is the front runner for the position.
“I think the strategy for the DA here is to re-capture the black vote. The party has not said this but this is how the politics will play out. They will put up Mmusi Maimane as the head. Maimane is by far the best candidate for this position,” said Binyiza.
Zille announced her decision abruptly and potential candidates have until 5pm on 24 April to put down their names for consideration for the position.
Ward 87 councillor Amanda Forsythe said it is up to the party members to decide who takes over from Zille, however her personal favourite is Maimane.
However, Maimane is not yet sure if he will put his name down for the position.
“Hellen Zille’s are big shoes to fill. My family and I are still considering it very carefully. This is not something to just rush into,” he said.
When asked about who he thinks should take over the position, Maimane said, “It is not about the person but the cause that we stand for. The party needs someone with the interest of South Africans at heart and can move the party forward.”
Sharing his thoughts on an eligible successor, Kelland resident and DA Chief Whip for the Caucus in Johannesburg Graham de Kock said, “We need someone who reflects the demographics of the country. There are two people I have in mind that would do well in this position.”
De Kock, however, declined to name his top candidates for the position.
Political analyst Daniel Silke said on Twitter the “DA leadership changes offers the party a chance to counter the ‘re-racialisation’ of South African politics.”
“Keeping the DA Western Cape heartland safe will be a challenge to any new DA leader who potentially comes from Gauteng. DA will need to secure a smooth and seamless transfer of power to a new leader who can unite its disparate support base,” said Silke.
According to media reports, Jack Swart and Neil Els, have put their names forward. John Moody and Makashule Gana are said to have plans to contest.
Who do you think should take the position as DA leader?
