After having both previously served in top positions within the structures of the Democratic Alliance, BOSA leader Mmusi Maimane and the GOOD Party’s Patricia De Lille have merged their parties with RISE Mzansi to create a brand new movement called Unite For Change.
The new political movement aims to unite its voices and contest in the 2026 Local Government Elections. This announcement was made during a recent press conference in Rosebank, which was held on Sunday afternoon.
The trio described their collaboration not as a coalition but said that they are “coming together as equals, demonstrating the responsibility of leadership, which often requires a different approach to the one we once believed was right.”
With the country facing several setbacks as a result of corruption, struggling state-owned enterprises, and unemployment, Mmusi believes that the time has come for South Africans to be the change they wish to see.
“Ultimately, citizens are fast becoming frustrated with the political system that seems to leave them behind. They know deep down in their hearts that South Africa isn’t heading in the right direction. They believe and they hear that there are too many empty promises. And they fear that there isn’t a plan to be able to take them to a nation that prospers and cities that can deliver for them,” he added.
Meanwhile, GOOD’s Patricia De Lille and Rise Mzansi’s Songezo Zibi have shared these sentiments, adding that while parties like the DA and ANC are good for one another, they are not good for the rest of South Africa.
“We are in this mess because the exact opposite is common, where people of questionable character, history, and capability have the reins of power and destroy institutions and people’s lives,” Songezo said.
Who will be the leader of Unite for Change? Build One South Africa’s Mmusi Maimane answers this question on #SouthAfricaTonight. #eNCA #DStv403 pic.twitter.com/uHxc6V9mB0
— eNCA (@eNCA) October 5, 2025
The trio believes that true change will take place when the country sees a change in leadership.
Furthermore, the group is inviting more parties to join their movement and promises to select the best possible candidates for the respective positions.
[MEDIA STATEMENT 💬]
We proudly announce the launch of Unite for Change, a new political party and movement that will campaign in the 2026 Local Government Elections under one shared banner.#UNITEFORCHANGE pic.twitter.com/Cl0taqIVqI
— RISE Mzansi (@Rise_Mzansi) October 5, 2025
Also see: From Honourable to Doctor: Mmusi Maimane celebrates PhD graduation
