Democratic Alliance leader Helen Zille will not be available for re-election as DA leader after eight years at the helm.

Zille made the announcement in Johannesburg on Sunday following a federal executive meeting.

Zille has led the DA since 2007.

The announcement comes a month before the party holds its federal congress in Port Elizabeth next month.

Last month, City Press reported that Zille would run uncontested for her position, as she had done since taking over the party.

Nominations for leadership close on 20 April. News24