Opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen on Friday said that he is hopeful that a multi-party government, anchored by the DA, will quickly bend South Africa’s trajectory towards progress and prosperity.

This follows a recent independent poll ahead of 2024 elections by the Brenthurst Foundation which found that African National Congress (ANC) support has dropped from 48% to 41% and parties of the Multi-Party Charter have a combined total support of 36%.

On Thursday, the eight leaders of the Multi-Party Charter welcomed the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP) as the Charter's newest member.

Steenhuisen added that the Multi-Party Charter also welcomed the launch of #ConvergenceSA, an umbrella initiative to strengthen the voice of civil society calling for a new government in 2024.

The DA leader mentioned the recent elections in Poland, where a liberal opposition alliance received over 54% of the vote.

He also recently returned from a coalition study tour in Germany with other South African opposition party leaders.

“So yes, I am filled with hope for South Africa’s future. But let me make one thing clear. A coalition government next year must be anchored by a strong DA. Every single German coalition has been anchored by a big, stable party. Only a strong DA can bring the stability required for a successful multi-party government next year. And only the DA has the resources and experience necessary to govern,“ stressed Steenhuisen.

Drawing on the lessons learnt watching the Springboks face-off against France in last week’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final match, Steenhuisen said success required a team effort.

“Watching our incredible 29-28 victory against France in the Rugby World Cup match that night, the lessons for the upcoming national and provincial elections in 2024 practically jumped out at me. A monumental team effort can get you across the line. Every point counts. We are stronger together,“ he said.