Democratic Alliance ramps up voter registration drive in Gauteng ahead of 2024 Elections

South Africa's leading opposition party, the Democratic Alliance (DA), embarked on an extensive voter registration drive in various localities throughout the Gauteng province on Monday in preparation for the 2024 elections. The occasion also marked the unveiling of its new campaign poster and slogan, an important milestone in its electoral campaign.

The Democratic Alliance is positioning itself as a viable alternative to the African National Congress (ANC), which the alliance criticizes for perceived corruption and poor management. "We aim to send a resounding message to our fellow South Africans –enough of corruption, constant load shedding, insecurities about employment, and the struggle to find work daily. There is hope for a brighter future," stated the DA leader, John Steenhuisen.

In July this year, seven opposition parties rallied behind the Democratic Alliance to form a coalition with the objective of deposing the African National Congress in the coming year. The coalition represents a significant shift in South Africa's political landscape, where voters cast their vote for a party rather than a specific presidential candidate.

Solly Msimanga, the DA Gauteng leader, emphasized the necessity for a different form of governance. "We not only require a government that caters to its people but also serves as an alternative to the one we are familiar with. The only means to bring this change is to register and venture out to vote in May next year," he indicated.

The ANC's support has dwindled recently due to growing criticism over its alleged failure to provide essential services and alleviate the plight of millions of South Africa's Black majority, as evidenced in the 2019 election where it garnered 57.5% of the votes. This fell to less than half in local elections held two years later, marking a historical moment in South African politics.