The Democratic Alliance (DA) has won a significant victory in a by-election in Thaba Chweu, Mpumalanga, winning a seat which has until now always been ANC controlled. The DA also retained a seat in the City of Cape Town with an increased majority.

In Ward 10, Thaba Chweu, the DA won 52.63% of the vote, compared to the ANC's 47.37%. The DA's support in this area has been steadily growing, from 15.06% in 2009, to 33.60% in the May local government elections, and now to 52.63%. At the same time the ANC has steadily declined, from 74.64% in 2009 to 47.37% in this by-election.

In Ward 71, City of Cape Town, the DA won 93.45% of the vote, an increase from 89.27% in May's election and 77% in 2009.

This victory, so soon after the May 2011 election, is an important indication that the DA continues to gain ground across South Africa, including in communities which have not previously voted DA. Voters are feeling increasingly confident in the DA's ability to represent the communities and towns where they live, and to deliver a better life for all. The DA is establishing itself as the only party that can offer both redress and delivery.

Each DA victory shows that South Africa's democracy is working, with more and more South Africans turning out to vote DA for the first time. 

Statement issued by Helen Zille, Leader of the Democratic Alliance, December 8 2011

Click here to sign up to receive our free daily headline email newsletter