DA'S DIRTY LAUNDRY: STEENHUISEN'S SORDID SCANDAL ROCKS PARTY

Democratic Alliance (DA) John Steenhuisen under the microscope over party's credit card.

By Mpho Dube, Editor-in-Chief of The Azanian

Johannesburg - The Democratic Alliance (DA) is reeling from a damaging scandal involving its leader, John Steenhuisen, who is facing allegations of financial mismanagement and abuse of power.

The scandal has sparked a bitter feud within the party, with former Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dion George, accusing Steenhuisen of violating the DA's constitution and rules.

According to reports, Steenhuisen has been accused of using party funds for personal expenses, including Uber Eats food delivery and household expenses. The DA's federal finance committee allegedly had to remove Steenhuisen's party credit card due to concerns over his ability to manage the account. The allegations have raised questions about Steenhuisen's leadership and fitness for office, with many calling for his resignation.

The scandal has also sparked a heated debate about the DA's moral authority to govern the country. Critics argue that the party's leadership has been compromised by Steenhuisen's alleged financial mismanagement and that it is no longer fit to lead the country.

"This is a clear case of the pot calling the kettle black," said a senior ANC official. "The DA has been quick to criticize the ANC for corruption and mismanagement, but it seems they have the same problems within their own ranks."

The DA's federal executive has announced an investigation into the allegations, but many are skeptical about the outcome, given the party's history of protecting its leaders. The investigation is expected to be led by the DA's Federal Legal Commission, which will examine the allegations and determine whether Steenhuisen has breached the party's constitution and rules.

The scandal has also raised concerns about the DA's ability to govern effectively, with critics arguing that the party's leadership has been weakened by the allegations. The DA is currently part of the Government of National Unity (GNU), and the scandal has raised questions about the party's continued participation in the coalition.

Steenhuisen has denied the allegations, calling them a "revenge attempt" by George, who was axed as minister in a recent cabinet reshuffle. However, the damage has already been done, with many questioning Steenhuisen's leadership and fitness for office.

The scandal has also sparked a leadership crisis within the DA, with some party members calling for Steenhuisen to step down. The DA's next elective congress in April 2026 will be crucial in determining the party's future, and it remains to be seen whether Steenhuisen will survive the crisis.

The DA's Federal Legal Commission has announced an investigation into the allegations against Steenhuisen. The investigation is expected to be completed within the next few weeks, and the outcome will determine whether Steenhuisen will face disciplinary action.