Democratic Alliance leader Geordin Hill-Lewis has accepted the party’s top job with a bold promise: to grow the DA into the largest party in South Africa and lead a future national government. Speaking at Gallagher Estate in Johannesburg on Sunday, 12 April 2026, Hill-Lewis said he would dedicate himself to building “a stronger South Africa for everyone”.

Hill-Lewis Sets Out DA Mission

In his acceptance speech, Hill-Lewis said the DA’s next chapter is no longer just about opposition or proving it can govern. He said the real test now is whether the party can lead the country.

He told delegates his mission is clear: grow the DA into the biggest political party in the country and prepare it to take control of national government. He said everything he does as leader will be focused on that goal.

Four-Point Plan to Grow the Party

Hill-Lewis said the DA must do four things to win more support. First, it must keep proving that it governs well wherever it is in power. He pointed to service delivery, functioning institutions and responsible budgets as proof that the party can improve daily life.

Second, he said the DA must connect more deeply with people who have never voted for it before. He said that trust cannot be built through screens alone and must be earned “community by community, street by street, conversation by conversation”.

Third, he said the DA must remain a strong and principled partner in the Government of National Unity while opposing policies it believes block progress.

Fourth, he said the party must lead with belief in South Africa’s future and reject the idea that decline is inevitable.

Crime Placed at Centre of National Agenda

Hill-Lewis made law and order his main national policy priority. He described crime as the biggest crisis holding South Africa back, saying fear affects families, women, business owners and farmers every day.

He argued that South Africa needs a major shake-up in policing and called for an end to criminal capture inside the SAPS. He said the country cannot unlock growth or restore public confidence without defeating crime and corruption.

Eye on 2026 and 2029 Elections

Looking ahead, Hill-Lewis linked the DA’s immediate task to the coming local government elections and the longer road to 2029. He said the party wants to win more towns and metros before eventually leading national government.