In a significant political shift, a councillor from the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has left the party to join the Democratic Alliance (DA) in the Cape Town City Council. The unexpected move has drawn strong reactions from both sides, reigniting discussions about political loyalty and ideological alignment in South Africa’s local government.
The councillor, whose name has not yet been officially released by the DA, reportedly expressed frustration with internal party issues and a belief that the DA would offer better opportunities to serve their community. After resigning from the EFF, the councillor was quickly accepted into the DA’s council caucus, further solidifying the DA’s majority in the council.
Tertuis Simmers, the DA’s Western Cape leader, confirmed the defection, describing it as a positive endorsement of the party’s governance. “We welcome the councillor and see this as a sign of growing confidence in the DA’s focus on clean, accountable, and effective service delivery,” Simmers said.
The EFF, however, strongly condemned the move, calling it a betrayal of the party’s principles. In a sharp statement, the EFF accused the councillor of prioritizing personal interests over the needs of working-class voters and aligning with a party that opposes its core ideology.
“This is not just a simple defection—it’s ideological betrayal,” an EFF spokesperson said. The party warned of possible disciplinary and legal steps if the councillor misused any EFF resources or mandates during their time in office.
Political analysts note that such defections are uncommon, particularly given the vast ideological differences between the EFF’s far-left stance and the DA’s center-right policies. The move also highlights potential internal challenges within the EFF, especially in the Western Cape, where the party has struggled to expand its influence.
The DA has stated that the new member will take on an active role in ward oversight and service delivery. Meanwhile, the EFF is expected to reassign the councillor’s duties and may consider contesting the seat if a by-election is called.
The defection is likely to remain a key talking point in political discussions, particularly as the 2026 local government elections approach, where coalition dynamics and party shifts could once again play a decisive role.
