DA says Helen Zille will bring ‘integrity’ to Johannesburg if elected mayor

Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Geordin Hill-Lewis told a crowd of supporters that Johannesburg residents would see “integrity” in government if Helen Zille becomes mayor after the 4 November local government elections. His comments came during the party’s Working For All Tour in Johannesburg on Thursday.

Promise of integrity and a working city

Addressing hundreds of supporters, Hill-Lewis said the DA was receiving backing from residents across Johannesburg, including some who had not previously voted for the party. He linked the party’s pledge on integrity to improved municipal services and wider economic benefits.

“We will not disappoint you. With your support, you will see what integrity looks like in government and what a working city feels like.”

Service delivery and economic arguments

Hill-Lewis positioned service delivery, municipal management and economic activity at the centre of the DA’s campaign in Johannesburg. He said functioning basic services would encourage business investment, open access to employment and reduce households’ need to pay privately for services already funded through municipal charges.

“When basic things start working, something important will happen. Businesses invest again. People get into work. Opportunity is spread.”

Campaign themes and platform

The DA named restoring basic services, improving municipal management and addressing infrastructure decline as priorities. In August the party launched its Get Joburg Working For All campaign, according to the party’s statements.

The DA has also said its local government platform includes professional municipal appointments, tighter management of public funds, investment in infrastructure and measures aimed at improving service delivery.

Mayoral race and election date

Helen Zille is the DA’s mayoral candidate for Johannesburg. The campaign faces competition from other candidates, including ActionSA leader Herman Mashaba, EFF candidate Tlaleng Mofokeng, MK Party candidate Bongani Baloyi and Patriotic Alliance candidate Kenny Kunene.

The 2026 local government elections are scheduled for 4 November, when voters across South Africa will elect representatives to municipal councils and determine which parties or coalitions can govern the City of Johannesburg and choose its mayor.