DA dominates by-elections in Tshwane and Metsimaholo

By Johnathan Paoli

The Democratic Alliance (DA) delivered a strong performance in Wednesday’s by-elections, retaining all three wards it contested in Gauteng and the Free State.

The by-elections took place in Tshwane Ward 98 (Theresa Park, Akasia), Tshwane Ward 44 (Faerie Glen), and Metsimaholo Ward 14 (Vaalpark, Sasolburg).

The results consolidate the DA’s position in urban strongholds, while the party also held off challenges from the Freedom Front Plus (FF+), African National Congress (ANC), and Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF)

The DA surged to 73% of the vote, up dramatically from 42% in the 2021 local government elections.

It swept all eight voting districts in the ward, signalling a growing consolidation of support in the north-western suburbs of Tshwane.

While the ANC (10%), FF+ (9%), and EFF (5%), all saw marked declines compared to their 2021 performance, the DA capitalised on this fragmentation.

Independent candidate Lydia Moroane garnered 3% and the