Overstrand Municipality elects Archibald 'Archie' Klaas as its first black mayor

The Land Party has declared the election of Archibald 'Archie' Klaas as Overstrand Municipality’s first black executive mayor a direct result of its growing influence and pressure on the DA to transform leadership in the historically exclusive council.

He took the position following the resignation of Dr Annelie Rabie in March.

In a bold statement following Klaas’s election during a Special Council Meeting on Monday, 2025, Land Party spokesperson Asavela Sithonga said the milestone was not an act of progressive governance, but a calculated response to shifting political tides.

“This appointment is not a DA initiative rooted in transformation,” said Sithonga. “It is the outcome of consistent pressure from the Land Party’s presence and the demands of the people of Overstrand.”

Sithonga said that since its formation, the Land Party has challenged what it describes as systemic racial bias and political inertia in the DA-led municipality.

For years, she alleged, the DA operated with little resistance, helped by muted opposition from ANC councillors.

The rise of the Land Party has disrupted this dynamic, forcing the DA to respond with unprecedented decisions.

“The election of both a black executive mayor and deputy mayor is historic in Overstrand,” said Sithonga.

“But we are not swayed by symbolism. Our support must be earned through real change.”

While welcoming the election of Mayor Klaas, the Land Party made it clear that his record will be scrutinised.

The party criticised Klaas’ previous tenure in the Overberg District Municipality, as deputy mayor and later as Speaker, for being overly theoretical and mired in procedural delays.

“We need results, not rhetoric,” Sithonga added.

“Overstrand residents are tired of long meetings with no outcomes. Mayor Klaas must now demonstrate leadership by implementing solutions that uplift the most neglected communities.”

The Land Party has pledged to hold the new administration accountable, insisting that transformation must be more than window-dressing.

Their focus remains on service delivery, spatial justice, and the improvement of socio-economic conditions in areas like Zwelihle, where Klaas himself was born and raised.

The DA’s Western Cape leader, Tertuis Simmers, welcomed the election, calling Klaas an experienced and capable leader.

“Archie Klaas brings a wealth of governance experience and embodies our commitment to clean and excellent service delivery,” Simmers said.

“Overstrand has consistently ranked among South Africa’s best-performing municipalities, and we are confident he will continue that legacy.”

Municipal Manager Dean O’Neill also extended his support, stating: “Mayor Klaas has deep community roots and a strong public service record. We look forward to working together to maintain and strengthen the municipality’s service levels.”

Klaas, whose political journey began in 2016 when he was first elected as a councillor in Overstrand, said he intends to build on the municipality’s progress while addressing its ongoing challenges.

Cape Times