Cape Town -- Female DA stalwarts have raised their hand to stand for powerful positions in a competitive race that may reshape the future of the “Blue Machine”.
With John Steenhuisen on a bid to retain his position, the DA’s upcoming congress has become a key battleground, with a handful of members expressing their interest in vying for a seat in the room reserved for the top brass, including Helen Zille who is reportedly aiming to retain her position as chairperson of the federal council. Zille did not respond to requests for comment.
Party communication’s director Richard Newton said the congress would be held on the first weekend in April. He didn’t provide further details, stating that internal processes needed to be concluded.
While the DA’s nomination processes were yet to begin, members have already began canvassing for support from within.
One member vying for a top post is one of the three deputy federal chairpersons, Refiloe Nt’sekhe.
The 45-year-old said: “every black little girl or woman should know that we are a party of possibilities and that everyone is welcome, no matter your age, race, gender or sexuality.
"I have already held this position three times and had amazing support last [at the last] congress which is why I became first deputy.“
She added: “When Helen became DA leader, she paved the way for women in the party to feel valuable and as if they are capable of anything and everything… I adore Helen and would like to follow in her footsteps.”
In 2012, while still a councillor, Nt’sekhe was appointed as the DA’s Gauteng provincial spokesperson.
After the May 2014 elections, she was elected as a member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature and is currently the shadow MEC for Social Development and a member of the health portfolio.
Johannesburg mayor Mpho Phalatse is eyeing Steenhuisen’s job.
Phalatse’s spokesperson Mabine Seabe previously told the Sunday Times the mayor was still consulting on whether to make herself available for election.
“The executive mayor has not made a decision,” said Seabe.
The incumbent federal chairperson and Western Cape MEC for Agriculture, Ivan Meyer, said he wasn’t yet sure if he would run again.
“I am in Namibia on a cruise ship and will only take a decision at the end of the month after consultation,” Meyer told Weekend Argus.
And race for provincial leader is yet to pick up in the Western Cape. The City of Cape Town’s housing portfolio head, Malusi Booi, is tipped to be among those gunning for Western Cape leader.
The provincial congress is expected to take place late this year after the federal congress is held in April.
An insider has revealed that Booi was laying the groundwork for his campaign and lobbying behind the scenes for support from delegates. Booi said he was mulling over the running for Western Cape leader.
“This is a democratic process, everyone has the opportunity. People have been asking me to consider running and I will think about it,” Booi said.
Political analyst, Dr John Molepo said: “If Helen Zille stand again it will just prove that the party doesn't have anyone else. The party need someone new. We should remember that Helen brought stability to the party but it should embrace diversity, therefore it's important that she does not stand.
“For women to contest John Steenhuisen is very interesting to see. We need women, we need the diversity. One also need to keep an eye on the calibre and colour of the women (candidates).”
Weekend Argus.