Muhammad Khalid Sayed

Khalid Sayed is the Leader of the Opposition in the Western Cape Provincial Parliament, representing the African National Congress (ANC). He leads the ANC caucus and works with opposition parties to promote democratic accountability, effective oversight and an alternative vision for the province.

Born and raised in Athlone, Cape Town, Sayed holds a Master’s degree in Religious Studies from the University of Cape Town, specialising in Islamic Studies, and a Diploma in Arabic Studies from Damascus University. He has lectured and conducted research at UCT.

His career spans academia, government, politics and the private sector, including roles as a public affairs consultant, parliamentary researcher and Chief of Staff in South Africa’s Ministry of Public Enterprises.

A long-standing ANC leader and activist, Sayed previously served as Deputy Chief Whip and Education Spokesperson in the Provincial Parliament. He is also widely recognised for his work advancing social justice, peacebuilding, community development and social cohesion.