20 September 2017

Dear All.

Pursuant to calls from various Democratic Alliance members and constituencies in the Western Cape, I hereby confirm that I will be contesting the position of Provincial Leader during the Provincial Congress, which will be held on 07 October 2017.

Having travelled throughout the Province and engaged with numerous constituencies, I was humbled by the overwhelming support and nominations to stand as leader.

The structures have highlighted their deep concern with the loss of support and wards to the ANC in traditional DA strongholds. The latest Ipsos Market Research indicates that under the current leadership the DA support in the Western Cape has decreased from 63.60% in 2016 to 47%.

As a result they have cited that the Province is in need of true, transparent, accessible and pro-active leadership. In addition to this, the Provincial leader should enforce discipline within party ranks and ensure that decisive action is taken, without fear or favour, against any member that violates the party’s constitution.

Members have indicated that there is a need for a leader that will unite us in our diversity and ensure that the party grows, especially as we are seeking to not only retain the Western Cape, but become the national government in 2019.

I wish to express my sincere gratitude to all those who believe that I am the ideal candidate to take the Democratic Alliance in the Western Cape forward. I also look forward to continue engaging with all members and structures throughout the Province.

Lastly, I am endorsing Mr Masizole Mnqasela as my deputy provincial leader.