PODCAST: Can the DA be South Africa’s largest party?

Mark Barnes and Tim Cohen gallop through the week’s events, offering thoughts, opinions, and perspectives on local and international affairs. This week with special guest Ryan Coetzee.
April 15, 2026
1 min read

The DA has just chosen a new leader and leadership team, and the personable Geordin Hill-Lewis, now the federal leader of the DA, has set the party the target of becoming the country’s largest party. 

Merchant banker Mark Barnes and journalist Tim Cohen discuss this question, only somewhat cynically, with special guest Ryan Coetzee. Coetzee is a political adviser long associated with the DA who has been a consultant to a wide range of organisations, including being special adviser to then UK deputy prime minister Nick Clegg. 

Also, political developments around the world.

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Mark Barnes

Mark Barnes is a South African businessman, investment banker and entrepreneur. He held senior roles at various institutions including Standard Bank, Capital Alliance and Brait. He is also known as the cofounder of the Purple Group, owner of EasyEquities.

Tim Cohen

Tim Cohen is a long-time business journalist, commentator and columnist. He is currently senior editor for Currency. He was previously the editor of Business Day and the Financial Mail, and editor at large for the Daily Maverick.

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