The resignation of South Africa’s Agriculture Minister from the helm of his party paves the way for a highly contested leadership battle that could redefine the Democratic Alliance’s racial and political identity.
John Steenhuisen is stepping down as the leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), South Africa’s second-largest political party. His impending resignation follows a turbulent period marked by policy disputes, coalition friction, and damaging revelations regarding his personal finances.
Steenhuisen’s leadership began unraveling amid intense criticism of his performance as agriculture minister. Commercial farmers, a key DA demographic, have fiercely condemned his failure to halt the spread of foot-and-mouth disease. The Southern African Agri Initiative (SAAI) accused him of systematically silencing industry critics.
Financial Misconduct Allegations
The DA’s platform of clean governance took a hit when it was revealed Steenhuisen owed nearly 150,000 rand in defaulted credit card debt. The controversy deepened when former Environment Minister Dion George—who was recently ousted by Steenhuisen—disclosed that he had previously confiscated the leader’s party credit card due to questionable expenditures.
George’s removal was heavily criticized by conservation groups, who viewed his strict anti-poaching policies as essential. DA leadership countered by launching a disciplinary inquiry into George over alleged unauthorized staff salary increases, further fueling public infighting.
Future Leadership
The DA will elect a new leader at its April congress. Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis is widely considered the favorite, potentially facing off against Gauteng leader Solly Msimanga. Analysts suggest the party is unlikely to elect a black leader, as it seeks to consolidate its conservative, predominantly white and mixed-race voting base following its controversial integration into the ANC-led government.
A black leader will not be supported by the conservatives in the party.
The transition marks a critical juncture for the DA as it attempts to stabilize its position within the national coalition while preventing further voter defection to right-wing alternatives.
SOURCES: Democratic Alliance (DA), SAAI, Daily Maverick, Political Commentators.
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