The DA spent a year trying to prove they can actually govern. In 2025, the Democratic Alliance under spokesperson Karaho Khakhau operated inside a Government of National Unity, a big shift from their usual opposition role. They pushed through a policy removing the value-added tax on some basic food items, arguing it helped with the high cost of living. Their management of the Home Affairs department saw a move toward more digital services, like smart IDs and online passport systems. The party also hit its 25-year anniversary, marked by a blanket drive initiative led by Dr. Ivan Meyer. Looking ahead, their stated priorities for 2026 involve continuing economic reforms and service delivery improvements from within the coalition framework.
This whole year was basically a test run for sharing power. Their involvement in the national unity government let them work on stuff like job creation plans and anti-corruption measures from the inside. The celebration of their founding involved giving out blankets in communities from Athlone to more rural spots, framing it as part of a long-term service commitment. The announcement about adjusting Black Economic Empowerment policies late in the year fit into their broader messaging on economic inclusion.
The takeaway for their supporters is a party claiming tangible wins, like that VAT break, while navigating a messy coalition landscape. Their focus for the next year remains on leveraging their governing position for further policy changes, particularly around economic growth and streamlining bureaucratic processes at Home Affairs. They are presenting this year as evidence that they can transition from criticizing to actually administering.
This whole year was basically a test run for sharing power. Their involvement in the national unity government let them work on stuff like job creation plans and anti-corruption measures from the inside. The celebration of their founding involved giving out blankets in communities from Athlone to more rural spots, framing it as part of a long-term service commitment. The announcement about adjusting Black Economic Empowerment policies late in the year fit into their broader messaging on economic inclusion.
The takeaway for their supporters is a party claiming tangible wins, like that VAT break, while navigating a messy coalition landscape. Their focus for the next year remains on leveraging their governing position for further policy changes, particularly around economic growth and streamlining bureaucratic processes at Home Affairs. They are presenting this year as evidence that they can transition from criticizing to actually administering.
