Charles Esther
Helen Zille has until 15 June 2025 to submit her name for the Democratic Alliance’s Johannesburg mayoral candidacy.
Solly Msimanga, the DA’s Gauteng chair, confirmed this deadline and stated that no late entries will be accepted under any circumstances.
Zille has not yet finalized her decision but told BusinessTech she is strongly considering the move.
She emphasized during a recent interview on SABC News that Johannesburg’s governance issues are deeply concerning and must be addressed immediately.
According to Zille, the city’s administration is “very broken,” and only a serious intervention can fix its growing problems.
She highlighted that without change, Johannesburg risks slipping further into financial and infrastructure decline.
Johannesburg’s Financial Struggles Demand Urgent Leadership
Mayor Dada Morero recently disclosed that Johannesburg’s infrastructure backlog requires at least R200 billion more than what is currently available.
The city operates on an R86 billion annual budget, which falls drastically short of what is needed for sustainable development.
Belinda Kayser-Echeozonjoku, DA’s Johannesburg caucus leader, criticized the city’s 2025 budget.
She argued that water and electricity services have been underfunded due to long-standing infrastructure delays.
Zille echoed these concerns, warning that if the city’s finances are not stabilized soon, the local economy could collapse.
She framed this as not just a political challenge but a civic emergency that affects all residents.
Zille Faces Political and Racial Headwinds in Johannesburg
The African National Congress currently holds more seats on Johannesburg’s council than the DA, creating an uphill battle for any opposition candidate.
Professor Theo Neethling, a political analyst, described Johannesburg’s political environment as extremely volatile and difficult for coalition governments.
On eNCA, ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba criticized Zille’s potential candidacy.
He suggested that it reflects the DA’s unwillingness to empower Black leaders in major urban centers.
Sasabona Manganye, the ANC’s Johannesburg secretary, blamed the Democratic Alliance for many of the city’s ongoing financial issues.
Zille responded by acknowledging that race-based criticism is expected but affirmed her focus will remain on poverty reduction.
She believes poverty—not race—should be the central issue guiding city policy and leadership.
DA’s Challenge to Regain Trust and Build a Coalition
All political parties seem to agree that Johannesburg is facing major structural and administrative challenges.
Zille brings a wealth of political experience, but that alone may not be enough to secure success.
She will need to convince potential coalition partners and the public that she can deliver effective governance.
Analysts argue that the city needs a leader who is not only politically sharp but also empowered to push through reforms.
Zille’s entry could significantly shift the Democratic Alliance’s standing in the city if she submits her candidacy before the 15 June deadline.
Her decision has the potential to reshape Johannesburg’s future—if she can unite divided interests and restore stability.
Will Helen Zille Accept the Challenge?
The coming days will determine whether Helen Zille enters the Johannesburg mayoral race for the Democratic Alliance.
If she does, the city could witness one of its most contested political battles in recent history.
Whether she succeeds or not, her decision will undoubtedly influence the direction of local politics in 2025 and beyond.
Let us know your thoughts—will Zille’s experience be enough to bring Johannesburg back on track?
