A genuine statement of intent for change

The following remarks were delivered during a media briefing by the Democratic Alliance today in Cape Town:

The Democratic Alliance is gearing up for the biggest manifesto launch in our history, a testament to our commitment to real change and a fresh vision for our beloved nation. This is our commitment to rescue South Africa.

In the last five years, we have witnessed the decay and decline of South Africa. President Ramaphosa’s promises, particularly on ending load-shedding, have proven to be nothing but empty rhetoric. The numbers paint a grim picture – rising poverty, swelling unemployment queues, and corruption reaching unprecedented levels.

Tintswalo, the child of democracy, is not living the dream promised by the ANC. The hope of a ‘New Dawn’ has faded into a dusk of despair. Our children are starving, crime is rampant, and our health system is crumbling.

The ANC’s mismanagement has crippled our economy, leading to a budget deficit and desperate measures that threaten our nation’s economic stability. The time for change is now, and South Africa deserves better. Election 2024 is to reset South Africa.

The Democratic Alliance’s manifesto is not a set of empty promises. It is a data-driven, well-researched document that addresses South Africa’s current crises. Our plan focuses on cutting wasteful spending, fixing the electricity crisis through privatisation, investing in education, and fostering an environment for economic growth.

This manifesto is not just a piece of paper; it’s a manifesto created afresh from the bottom up. New research and new economics underpin our approach, ensuring practical and workable solutions to the challenges facing our nation.

The manifesto launch on Saturday, 17 February, in Pretoria, is not merely symbolic; it’s a genuine statement of intent. The executive seat of government is where we set our sights because to govern South Africa, one must be ready to occupy the Union Buildings. With a presence in every province and town, the DA focuses on Pretoria, showcasing our readiness for the upcoming elections.

Thousands of supporters will gather at Church Square, marching to the Union Buildings, symbolising our unwavering commitment to change. The largest-ever march of DA supporters represents not only our growth but the growing wave of support for a government that puts the people first.

We express gratitude to the SAPS and the City of Tshwane for their collaboration in ensuring legal compliance and security. The rally will feature renowned artists and a keynote speech by the Federal Leader of the DA, John Steenhuisen.

As President Ramaphosa delivered his last SONA, we bid farewell to an era of stagnation. It’s time for a new government, a government led by the Democratic Alliance, a government that will put the people first. The DA’s manifesto launch is not just an event; it’s a historic moment, a rallying cry for change.

It is the new beginning. The DA and our partners in the Multi-Party Charter are the Government in Waiting and that is why the executive seat has been chosen for the launch of our Manifesto. A Manifesto to give people real hope. The mission to rescue South Africa starts here.