Two Democratic Alliance (DA) ward councillors from George in the Western Cape have resigned from the party to join the Patriotic Alliance (PA), a move that shakes up the balance of power in the local council.
Both councillors, who served on the Mayoral Committee, announced their defections this week.
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Their exit triggers two by-elections in the coming months and leaves the DA short of a majority in the 53-seat council.
The party now holds 25 seats, while its coalition partner, the African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), adds just one more — two votes shy of the 27 needed to control the council.
Defectors Say Move Is About Representing Marginalised Communities
Former DA councillor Brendon Adams said his decision to join the PA was rooted in community representation rather than personal gain.
“The decision that I made is to be with our people. You can see my people in the back. To be with our Khoi and coloured people and to make sure they’ve got a voice in the Western Cape, George and in the whole of South Africa,” said Adams.
He dismissed claims that money influenced his defection.
“Yesterday, I read messages of the 30 silver coins thing, the Judas thing and all of that nonsense. And I said no, my journey is to represent the Khoi people. I didn’t get any money.
“Interestingly enough, Marchelle, his money was stopped, but because of the lawyer’s letters, his payment went through yesterday. So, he got his last salary. He was also MMC in the DA, just like I was MMC in the DA,” Adams explained.
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DA Vows to Stay Focused on Service Delivery
In response, the DA maintained that its priority remains serving the people of George despite the political shake-up.
“On behalf of the DA East Region and Executive Committee, we’d like to wish the two former DA councillors well on their new journey. The DA remains committed to serving the residents of George,” said Venolea Fortuin, DA East Region Chairperson.
With the DA’s control weakened, upcoming by-elections will determine whether the party can reclaim its majority — or if the Patriotic Alliance’s influence in the region continues to grow.
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