John Steenhuisen is out
Democratic Alliance leader John Steenhuisen has announced he will not contest the party’s next federal election, marking the end of his time as party leader.
At a press briefing on Wednesday (4 February), Steenhuisen confirmed earlier reports citing party sources that he would not be standing for election.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
In the briefing, Steenhuisen confirmed many points of speculation about his reported exit, including that he would continue to serve in the national government as minister.
The briefing also confirmed that his exit is being framed as a desire for him to focus entirely on his ministerial portfolio’s fight against Foot and Mouth Disease ravaging South Africa’s livestock.
“After leading the DA into the GNU, my next chapter must be to eradicate this devastating disease from our shores once and for all. That is not a part-time job,” he said.
“It would not be fair to the incredible farmers of South Africa for me to split my time between battling the worst FMD outbreak ever on the one hand, while also running an internal campaign for the next three months and then leading a local government election campaign, on the other hand.”
With Steenhuisen stepping aside for new leadership in the party, this opens the way for other fast-risers, including Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, to step up.
Hill-Lewis has spoken about his political ambitions and willingness to lead the DA, but also made it clear he would not contest against Steenhuisen. This path is now open.
The DA’s federal congress will elect new leadership in April 2026. Nominations open on 24 February.
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