DA Pledges to “Get Eastern Cape Municipalities Working Again,” Citing Kouga as Model
Viable News Team 
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has vowed to restore functional local government across the Eastern Cape, arguing that poorly performing municipalities have contributed to service delivery failures, rising unemployment and stalled economic growth. The commitment was made by DA Federal Leader John Steenhuisen MP during the party’s Eastern Cape Provincial Congress in Gqeberha on 28 February 2026.
Steenhuisen noted that many Eastern Cape municipalities are struggling with collapsing infrastructure, failing water systems, broken clinics and rising crime problems he said stem from decades of mismanagement, debt and dysfunctional governance.
Kouga Cited as a Success Story
Steenhuisen pointed to Kouga Local Municipality governed by the DA and rated as one of the province’s best-performing municipalities as a blueprint for effective local governance. He credited Kouga’s leadership with using technology, strong financial management and proactive service delivery to maintain roads, tackle crime and manage resources responsibly.
The DA argues that a similar approach emphasising integrity, infrastructure investment and accountability can reverse decline in other municipalities and create an environment that attracts investment, reduces unemployment and restores dignity to residents.
Context and Political Strategy
Steenhuisen framed the pledge within the upcoming 2026 local government elections, urging voters to support the DA in transforming local service delivery across the Eastern Cape. He highlighted that jobs, safety and economic growth begin at the municipal level and that dysfunctional local government has become a barrier to opportunity in many communities.
The congress also saw Andrew Whitfield re-elected unopposed as DA Eastern Cape leader, signalling continuity in the party’s provincial leadership ahead of the elections.
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