DA to sharpen policy stance at federal congress ahead of elections

The Democratic Alliance prepares for their Federal Congress, this weekend

The Democratic Alliance (DA) says it will use its federal congress this weekend to sharpen its policy position within the Government of National Unity (GNU). The party is set to elect new leadership this weekend at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, north of Johannesburg.

More than 2000 delegates are expected to attend.

The party has been at odds with the African National Congress (ANC) on key legislation, including the National Health Insurance (NHI).

Speaking to the SABC, DA head of Policy, Mat Cuthbert says delegates will use this weekend to outline policy priorities as the party positions itself ahead of the upcoming local government elections.

👀 Who’s in the race for leadership? DA members from across SA have put themselves forward and delegates from every province will vote for the next DA leaders.

📅 Results will be revealed this Sunday, 12 April 2026.

This #DAcongress2026 is about getting South Africa working. 💙 pic.twitter.com/d0BzjTpcTu

— Democratic Alliance (@Our_DA) April 10, 2026

“We have had a number of wins, but we need to deepen and speed up the reforms. Things like the NHI are very problematic pieces of legislation, and we believe they take away people’s choice in healthcare, particularly the option of private healthcare,” says Cuthbert.