Steenhuisen's Sudden Exit: DA Leader Relinquishes Power Amidst Scandal and Infighting

Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen.

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

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In a shocking move, Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen announced he won't seek re-election as party leader, citing a desire to focus on combating the country's devastating foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak.

However, insiders reveal the decision is a strategic retreat amidst a maelstrom of internal conflicts and scandals.

Steenhuisen's departure comes as the DA is reeling from a bitter feud between him and finance committee chairperson Dion George, who has submitted an affidavit to the Public Protector alleging Steenhuisen fired him as environment minister under false pretences.

The allegations have sparked a firestorm of accusations, including financial mismanagement, power grabs, and corruption.

The DA's internal conflicts have been brewing for months, with accusations of a culture of fear and intimidation within the party. Federal Council chairperson Helen Zille has stepped in, urging leaders to stop airing their dirty laundry in public, but the damage is done. The party's reputation is in tatters, and its very survival is at stake.

Steenhuisen's decision to relinquish power has opened the door for new leadership, with Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis emerging as a potential frontrunner. However, the road ahead is fraught with challenges, as the party navigates its internal divisions and prepares for local government elections.

The DA's problems go beyond just Steenhuisen and George, with some members questioning whether the party is still committed to its core values. The party's participation in the Government of National Unity (GNU) has also sparked debate, with some viewing it as a betrayal of the DA's opposition role.

As The Azanian_ has reported, the DA's internal divisions are a result of a culture of fear and intimidation, with some members too afraid to speak out against Steenhuisen. The party's house of cards is crumbling, and it's unclear if it can be salvaged.

Steenhuisen's sudden exit has sent shockwaves through the party, with many wondering what's next for the DA. One thing's certain: the party will be lucky to survive this scandal with its reputation intact.

The Azanian, has been following the story closely. "The DA's internal conflicts have been brewing for months, and it's clear that the party is at a crossroads. Steenhuisen's decision to relinquish power is a desperate attempt to salvage what's left of the party's reputation, but it's unclear if it's too little, too late."

The DA's federal congress will elect new leadership in April 2026, with nominations opening on 24 February. The party faces an uphill battle to recover from the current scandal and present a united front in the upcoming local government elections.

The implications of Steenhuisen's departure extend beyond the DA, with potential repercussions for the GNU and the country's political landscape. As the DA navigates its internal crisis, the ANC is watching closely, sensing an opportunity to capitalize on the opposition's weakness.

In a statement, Steenhuisen said, "I today announce that I will not seek re-election for a third term as DA Federal Leader at the party's upcoming Federal Congress. I do so with a full heart, knowing that I have accomplished my DA Moonshot mission, and that my work in government now requires me to similarly pour my heart and soul into defeating foot-and-mouth disease."

However, insiders reveal Steenhuisen's decision is not entirely altruistic. The DA leader has been under pressure to step down, with allegations of financial mismanagement and abuse of power. The party's internal conflicts have been exacerbated by Steenhuisen's leadership style, which has been criticized as autocratic and divisive.

As the DA faces an uncertain future, one thing is clear: Steenhuisen's departure marks the beginning of a new era for the party, one that will be defined by its ability to navigate its internal divisions and present a united front in the face of adversity.

The Azanian will continue to follow this story closely, providing updates and analysis on the DA's internal conflicts and their implications for South African politics.