MEDIA RELEASE

Democratic Alliance fields Portuguese candidates in 2011 Local Government Elections

Manny de Freitas, Shadow Deputy Minister of Transport and Member of Parliament for Johannesburg South presented publicly two Portuguese DA Election 2011 candidates for the City in Johannesburg.

“I am proud to present to the public two candidates, one who was born in Portugal and another who is a Luso-descendent, who are contesting the local government elections to take place next month,” de Freitas said. De Freitas explained that all candidates go through a very vigorous and intensive candidate selection process to qualify to represent the DA as candidates in the Elections.

“I am very excited about these Elections as the Democratic Alliance will continue to grow as more and more South Africans of all communities look to the DA as the alternative,” de Freitas said. Manny de Freitas MP said that these two candidates have the same vision and are committed to making the charges that South Africa needs.

Manny de Freitas presented the candidates to the public and provided a brief background;

Carlos da Rocha is 46 years old, was born in Porto and has been in South Africa for most of his life. Carlos’ parents were also both born in Porto. Carlos da Rocha is candidate for ward 66 which encompasses the following areas: Bellevue East, the western part of Kensington and most of Bez-Valley. 

Sergio dos Santos is 30 years old and was born in Johannesburg. His father is from Rio Tinto and his mother is from Lisbon. Sergio dos Santos is candidate for ward 54. Ward 54 comprises of the following areas: Winchester Hills and all extensions, Ridgeway  A & B, Ormonde, Crown Gardens, Evans Park, Mondeor and Suideoord.

De Freitas said that both candidates had been members of the DA for a number of years and had shown commitment and are both very hard-working. “Both candidates would make fantastic councillors who would serve well the communities that they represent,” de Freitas said.

“These two candidates are examples of how anyone, irrespective from which background or community they are, have the opportunity of contributing to democracy in South Africa,” de Freitas concluded.

Ends.

Photo caption:  Manny de Freitas MP (on the right) endorses (from left to right), DA candidate for ward 66, Carlos da Rocha and DA ward 54 candidate, Sergio dos Santos.

Media Enquiries: MANNY DE FREITAS MP - 082 788 6824