Fellow residents of uMhlathuze, leaders of the Democratic Alliance, Councillors, activists, friends and members of our community. Today I stand before you deeply honoured and humbled to accept the nomination as the Democratic Alliance’s Mayoral Candidate for the City of uMhlathuze in the 2026 Local Government Elections.
This is not just a personal milestone for me. It is a moment about service, responsibility and the future of our city. For more than fourteen years, I have had the privilege of serving the people of uMhlathuze as a councillor. In that time, I have walked the streets of our neighbourhoods, spoken to residents about their concerns, and worked with officials and councillors to resolve the everyday challenges that communities face.
I have seen firsthand the strength, resilience and determination of the people of Richards Bay, Empangeni and our surrounding communities.
Our city is filled with hardworking people who simply want what every South African deserves: safe neighbourhoods, reliable services, economic opportunity and a municipality that works.
The City of uMhlathuze is one of the most important economic engines in KwaZulu-Natal. We have a world-class deep-water port, expanding logistics and industrial sectors, growing commercial developments, and enormous potential to create jobs and attract investment.
But potential alone is not enough. To unlock that potential, we need clean governance, competent administration and leadership that puts residents first. That is the vision we bring as the Democratic Alliance.
The DA believes in a capable state – a government that is professional, accountable and focused on delivery. We believe that public money must be spent responsibly.
This year was the 11th consecutive year during which the City received a clean and unqualified audit report and Thursday night the Auditor General awarded the municipality.
Notwithstanding the above achievement, we will never give up fighting against corruption and it must be rooted out wherever it exists.
And that municipalities must focus on their core responsibilities: water, electricity, roads, safety and infrastructure. Residents deserve a municipality that works for them, not for political interests.
If elected as Mayor, my focus will be clear. First, since we became part of the current coalition government, we worked hard to improve service delivery however there is still try a lot of work to be done.
Residents must be able to rely on consistent water supply, properly maintained roads, functioning streetlights and reliable electricity infrastructure.
Second, we must protect and expand our local economy. The port expansion, industrial investment and new commercial developments present enormous opportunities.
Our role as a municipality is to create an environment where businesses can grow, investors feel confident and jobs are created. In this regard, in the event I’ll be elected as mayor my aim will be to cutting red tape to enable business to enter the local economy with greater easy and confidence.
My vision for the city is for building cranes to cover our skyline as far and wide as possible. Third, we must restore trust in local government. People must know that when they report a problem, the municipality listens and responds. As leaders, we must accept that our main responsibility is to honor our commitments to our residents.
Local government should be accessible, transparent and accountable.
And finally, we must build a city that works for every community. Whether you live in Richards Bay, Empangeni, Ngwelezane, Esikhawini or our rural communities, the promise of good governance must reach you equally.
My commitment is simple. I will continue to lead with integrity, hard work and an open door to the people we serve.
Leadership is not about titles. It is about responsibility. It is about waking up every morning focused on how we can make our city better.
I want to thank the Democratic Alliance for placing their trust in me.
I also want to thank my colleagues, community leaders and residents who continue to support our vision for uMhlathuze.
But most importantly, I thank the people of this city. You are the reason we serve.
The coming election will be about choices. A choice between decline or progress. Between politics or performance. Between promises or delivery.
Together we can choose a future where the City of uMhlathuze is known not only for its economic strength, but for excellent governance and thriving communities.
Let us move forward together with confidence, determination and a shared commitment to building a city that works for everyone.
Our actions must reflect the DA’s values- FREEDOM, FAIRNESS, OPPORTUNITY AND DIVERSITY.
