Port Elizabeth - Mmusi Maimane on Sunday became the new leader of the Democratic Alliance, with Athol Trollip being elected federal chairman of the party.
Upon taking the podium, Maimane immediately extended an olive branch to his opponent, Wilmot James, and his supporters.
“Sometimes we disagree with each other, but we disagree because we care so much about the future of this country, and that’s okay,” Maimane said.
At the same time, Maimane threw down the gauntlet to anybody who might seek to divide the party, with the leadership campaign now behind it.
“It’s healthy for us to engage in a robust debate, but let me be clear…there will be no room for those who seek to divide, or those who want to mobilise on the basis of race.”
Maimane, Trollip and the rest of the newly elected leadership was expected to address the media later on Sunday.
Former DA Western Cape leader Ivan Meyer was elected first deputy federal chairman, while Refiloe Ntsekhe becomes the second deputy chair. Desiree van der Walt is Trollip’s third deputy chairwoman.
James Selfe remains chairman of the federal council, after being elected unopposed. His new deputy is Thomas Walters.
Alf Lees was elected chairman of the DA federal finance committee.
ANA