The power struggle within the DA
A legal opinion on a technical question over who draws up the party’s list of electoral candidates could shift power in the DA
The skirmish in the DA over who chooses the candidates to represent the party in parliament and the provincial legislatures is the latest saga in the battle for the soul of the party. The stakes are high, as those on either side of the party’s ideological divide — those pushing for diversification against those supporting a traditional liberal agenda — have a tangible interest in the outcome. In SA, parties fill their legislative seats from party lists, which are drawn up ahead of elections. The DA is waiting for a legal opinion from advocate Steven Budlender, which could shift the balance of forces in the party. Budlender is to advise on whether a panel within the DA can be considered to be a committee. The question may seem technical, but it will affect the powers of the DA’s provincial leaders. As it stands, party leaders may serve on provincial committees. So if Budlender decides that a selection panel meets the definition of committee, it would give ammunition to those who supp...
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