WATCH | ‘I stand before you ready to lead, ready to serve’ — DA’s Chris Pappas

The KwaZulu-Natal DA is rallying voters behind a “common cause” with a message of “rescuing” the province from further decline. 

The party on Monday announced its premier candidate is Chris Pappas. 

“It is time for each of us to find courage to rescue KwaZulu-Natal. That will be done by a DA-led government. The year 2024 will be our final opportunity for a better future, a future that could be filled with hope,” Pappas said. 

The 32-year-old leads the only DA governed municipality in the province, Umgeni.

Pappas did not seem intimidated by his party’s faith in him. 

“A new generation is being called upon to deliver a better future. This generation is not defined by age. It is a generation defined by a new mindset, a new ambition, a new struggle for a non-racial and prosperous KZN where leaders serve the people,” said Pappas. 

He acknowledged the DA’s fight for control of KZN will not be easy and emphasised he was driven by “the courage to do what’s right”.

Pappas said he recognised the DA’s project to govern KZN after next year’s national elections will require party members and the confidence of people in the province. 

“This requires dedication for a cause that is much bigger than any of us. This is for all of us, regardless of your race, age or gender, rural or urban. 

“United we will rescue this province we love from this uncaring government. This is our last chance to save our beautiful province and we need you. No one will save us and there will be no miracle.” 

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