DA claims historic black voter breakthrough as support tops one million

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has claimed a historic breakthrough among black voters, with internal projections indicating over one million black South Africans supported the party for the first time during the local government elections. Ashor Sarupen, the DA's Federal Council first deputy chairperson, stated that the party's parallel vote tabulation system revealed its strongest black voter support in history.

The DA's projections suggest it has garnered more support from black voters than the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF), signaling a potential shift in South Africa's political landscape.

Sarupen emphasized that for the first time in the party's history, more than one million black South Africans voted for the DA, indicating a major shift in the nation's political climate. He argued that the party has always believed South Africa can build a diverse, all-inclusive party working for all communities, regardless of race or ethnicity.

The projections, while pending final certification by the Electoral Commission of South Africa (IEC), hold significant implications beyond electoral mathematics, as they suggest the DA's message of inclusivity is resonating in historically unapproachable communities.

The DA's campaign focused on delivering functional government, reliable service delivery, and economic opportunities. Sarupen acknowledged that voters were increasingly willing to challenge long-standing political loyalties, especially in response to persistent service delivery issues, such as water shortages, electricity failures, and collapsing infrastructure.

He stated that South Africans are choosing to hold their political parties accountable, and if they fail to meet promises, they will vote them out. The DA believes its governing track record in municipalities under its control, such as the uMngeni Municipality, serves as a strong selling point for its governance capabilities.