By-election victories: DA grows, ANC in decline

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has recorded two remarkable victories against the ANC in by-elections in the City of Cape Town (Gugulethu-Heideveld) and Theewaterskloof (Grabouw) municipalities.

The DA has never won these wards since 1994. The result in Grabouw is particularly significant - the DA polled 48.13%, up from 9.6% in 2006. The ANC received 44.8% of the vote, down from 71.7% in 2006.

In Gugulethu-Heideveld, the DA polled 60.3%, up from 26.2% in 2006. The ANC polled 37.7%, down from 53% in 2006. This victory follows a campaign marked by ANC perpetrated political violence and intimidation. The campaign in this ward has unmasked the ANC's intolerance for democratic competition.

The DA continues to grow across South Africa, with more and more South Africans turning out to vote DA for the first time. Tonight's results demonstrate the extent to which the DA is increasing support across all communities.

In other by-elections, the DA retained a seat in Southport, KwaZulu-Natal, and showed significant growth in Mogale City Ward 31, polling 34.5%, up from 20.9% in 2006.

In contrast, the ANC continues on its path of steady decline. Tonight's victories mean that since the 2009 national election, the DA has won eight seats previously held by the ANC, and one previously held by ICOSA. The ANC has not won a single ward in the Western Cape since the April 2009 national election.

These victories are endorsements of the DA's performance in government, and of our vision of an Open Opportunity Society for All.

The DA is encouraged by the fact that so many people have voted for us for the first time today. We will continue to work tirelessly to show that their faith in us is justified.

Today's results bode well for next year's local government elections, where the DA aims to continue this trend.

Statement issued by Democratic Alliance leader, Helen Zille, May 27 2010

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