The Democratic Alliance (DA) is expected to announce Helen Zille as its candidate for mayor of Johannesburg this morning, according to senior party sources, with the official unveiling scheduled for 09:45.

Zille, who chairs the party’s Federal Council, has been at the centre of speculation for months, with her possible candidacy seen as a dramatic return to frontline politics. Johannesburg is regarded as the most consequential municipal post in the country, making the announcement a pivotal political event.

The unveiling will be addressed by DA federal leader John Steenhuisen, Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga, and Johannesburg chairperson Wendy Alexander. Party strategists believe that positioning an experienced leader could resonate with voters weary of service failures and political turmoil in the city.

The move signals the DA’s intent to put forward its most experienced leaders as it positions itself to challenge the ANC and other rivals in urban strongholds.