DP, noun2

Initial letters of Democratic Party, a political party supporting the principles of western democracy and free enterprise, and in the past opposing apartheid; a member of this party. Also attributive. See also Prog.
Note:
Formed in 1989 by the amalgamation of the Independent Party (see IP), the National Democratic Movement (see NDM), and the Progressive Federal Party (see PFP).
1989 Z. De Beer in Progress Mar. 1The inner convictions of all who are engaged in forming the DP are such that we clearly belong together. We all stand committed for [sic] fundamental civil liberties.
1989 Race Rel. Survey 1988–9 (S.A.I.R.R) 659The Democratic Party (DP) was launched in April 1989 following negotiations between three parties, the Progressive Federal Party (PFP) the Independent Party (IP) and the National Democratic Movement (NDM) to form a single party.
1990 B. Stevenson in Sunday Times 23 Dec. 11A large percentage of the DP support base lies among the business and professional communities...Our DPs have a high profile and tackle local issues such as schools, environment, hospitals and tourism.
1991 A. Van Wyk Birth of New Afrikaner 110A vision of myself in a vast crowd. It is a gathering of whites: former Nats and Saps, Progressives, DPs and perhaps a few CPs, too.
1993 L. Kaunda in Natal Witness 13 Apr. 7The task on the political front is to transform the DP into a provincial structure with five regions. Another challenge is to attract non-traditional members.
Initial letters of Democratic Party, a political party supporting the principles of western democracy and free enterprise, and in the past opposing apartheid; a member of this party. Also attributive.
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DP, nounn.1DPSC, nounn.
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