Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Geordin Hill-Lewis addressed party members and supporters on Thursday, setting out what he described as a critical political and economic transition needed in South Africa.

His remarks focused on moving away from what he characterised as a system defined by dependency and entrenched party dominance towards a model of citizen-centred governance.

In this alternative approach, the emphasis would be placed on improving the effectiveness of government institutions, accelerating economic growth, and expanding opportunities for ordinary South Africans.

During the address, Hill-Lewis framed the current political environment as one that requires significant reform to better serve citizens and address longstanding socio-economic challenges.

He argued that South Africa needs governance systems that prioritise accountability, efficiency, and practical delivery rather than political patronage or over-reliance on state support structures.

According to the speech, economic transformation should be driven by policies that encourage investment, job creation, and broader participation in the economy.

The event was presented as a live address and was broadcast with video courtesy of the South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC), as noted by TimesLIVE.

The speech forms part of ongoing political messaging by the DA leadership, aimed at positioning the party as an alternative governance option focused on reform and economic renewal.

Hill-Lewis’s comments also reflect broader national debates about economic stagnation, service delivery challenges, and the need for structural political change in South Africa’s democratic landscape.