By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Former Western Cape legislature speaker Masizole Mnqasela has announced the formation of a new political party called the Alliance of Citizens for Change (ACC).
The party was officially launched at the Rocklands Civic Centre in Mitchells Plain on Saturday.
Mnqasela told his supporters that ethical leadership was the cornerstone of the party’s approach.
“We understand the importance of prioritising the well-being of our citizens and the greater good over personal gain. Our leaders are committed to taking responsibility for their actions and holding themselves accountable for any mistakes or failures,” he said.
“By embodying ethical leadership, we foster trust, transparency, and integrity in our government, ensuring that the voices and needs of our people are heard and addressed.”
Mnqasela said while other political parties preached division, they were aiming to unite the country.
“You will never be able to remove thieves who are stealing from you in the national government, because their friends in the opposition who govern this province of the Western Cape want a coalition with them,” he said.
“This is just for their jobs and to protect their personal interests. They all do not care about you, the poor and unemployed. You are on your own. We need ACC, we need change, and real change, now.
“We will be open to feedback, ready to listen and learn from the diverse perspectives of our fellow South Africans.”
Mnqasela was in the DA for 21 years before an acrimonious split which saw him take the party to court in a bid to be reinstated after it expelled him.
In recent months, South Africa has seen the launch of a number of political parties with their eye on the next election. These include former Business Day editor Songezo Zibi’s Rise Mzansi, the author and broadcaster Mpho Dagada’s Arise South Africa and former ActionSA Gauteng chairperson Bongani Baloyi’s Xiluva.