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Chris Pappas Sworn In as KwaZulu-Natal's Only DA Mayor
Chris Pappas Sworn In as KwaZulu-Natal's Only DA Mayor
Chris Pappas will be sworn in on Friday as the only Democratic Alliance (DA) mayor in KwaZulu-Natal, following the party’s decisive victory in the uMngeni local municipality. The DA secured a commanding majority in the council, which covers Howick and surrounding areas, while also expanding its overall councillor count across the province.
Chris Pappas is scheduled to be sworn in on Friday as the sole Democratic Alliance (DA) mayor in KwaZulu-Natal, following the party’s decisive electoral victory in the uMngeni local municipality. The inauguration marks a significant shift in local governance for the region, which includes the town of Howick, the township of eMpophomeni, and surrounding residential areas such as Hilton and Nottingham Road.
The DA achieved a clean sweep of the council, securing 15 out of 25 seats. This result ensures that the party holds a comfortable majority in a municipality that was previously governed by the African National Congress (ANC). Dean Macpherson, the DA’s provincial chairperson, highlighted the significance of the outcome, noting that the party won every single ward in the four 100% black townships within uMngeni with a commanding majority.
"In the four, 100% black township wards in the municipality, the DA won every single one of them with a commanding majority. We will continue with our mission to deliver for all residents in townships, rural and suburban areas. uMngeni will continue to be a beacon of hope in KZN," Macpherson said.
Pappas, who previously held the mayoral position after the 2021 municipal elections where he secured the role with 42 votes, is set for re-election. His initial victory in 2021 had marked the first time the DA ascended to municipal power in the province.
The remaining council seats are distributed among other political entities. The uMkhonto weSizwe Party, led by former president Jacob Zuma, has secured five seats and will serve as the official opposition. The ANC claimed four seats, while the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) holds one seat.
Beyond uMngeni, the DA has expanded its presence in KwaZulu-Natal, increasing its number of councillors from 177 in 2021 to 201 following the recent municipal elections. The party is also positioned to join government coalitions in several hung councils across the province.
uMngeni is the first municipality in KwaZulu-Natal to hold its inauguration ceremony, with other councils expected to swear in their new leadership in the coming week.
M.Kowalski--GL
