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The Democratic Alliance is pleased with its victories in two by-elections yesterday. The DA won by-elections in Mogalakwena, Limpopo and in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal. The victory in Mogalakwena is particularly noteworthy. The seat was won by the ANC in this year’s Local Government election, and indeed it has always been an ANC seat, but in the by-election yesterday a majority of voters made their mark for the DA. This was an exceptional team effort and all who were involved in this important victory deserve congratulations.

These victories are a further indication that more voters are choosing the DA difference. Increasingly, they are feeling confident in the DA’s ability to represent the communities in which they live, and to deliver a better life where we govern.

In Mogalakwena, ward 31, the DA polled 50.51%, up from 38.23% in May 2011. The ANC received 47.50% of the vote, down from 53.86% in May 2011.

In Newcastle, ward 4, the DA polled a notable 94.88% up from 50.13% in May 2011. The ANC received just 4.95% of the vote, down from 30.91% in May 2011.

These victories show that democracy in South Africa is working and that voters are ready for change.