Alan Winde was competing against provincial leader Bonginkosi Madikizela and DA MP David Maynier for the post. (David Harrison/M&G)
Western Cape MEC for economic opportunities Alan Winde has been announced as the Democratic Alliance’s candidate for premier in the province.
DA leader Mmusi Maimane made the announcement on Wednesday in Cape Town, dubbing Winde the “jobs premier”.
“Whilst we were spoiled for choice in picking candidates … I think without doubt it would be fair to say to you that I’m introducing the jobs premier of South Africa,” Maimane said.
Maimane cited Winde’s success in making unemployment in the Western Cape 14% below the national unemployment rate. Winde, meanwhile, has said he was “humbled” that he had been selected as the party’s candidate.
“I am honoured that my party has given me this opportunity. It’s a huge opportunity and something I will put my full weight into,” he said.
Jobs, healthcare and education will form some of the focus areas that Winde will concentrate on if he is to be elected. Crime and security would also be significant, as the Western Cape battles against the high rate of murders in the province.
Winde was competing against provincial leader Bonginkosi Madikizela and DA MP David Maynier for the post. Madikizela took himself out of the running for mayor to contest for the premiership job.
But Maimane said that the ambitious provincial leader has “pledged support” to Winde.
Winde will succeed Helen Zille for the post if his party is successfully elected in 2019.