Update:
Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen has confirmed that he will not contest the party’s upcoming leadership election, formally stepping aside ahead of the DA’s Federal Congress scheduled for April, reports Cape {town} Etc.
Steenhuisen made the announcement on Wednesday morning at a media briefing in Durban, ending weeks of speculation about his future at the helm of the party.
He began his address with an overview of the DA’s successes over the years since his election as interim leader of the DA in November 2019, before becoming a full-term leader the following year.
‘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,’ said Steenhuisen.
‘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.’
Steenhuisen, who also serves as South Africa’s Minister of Agriculture, confirmed that he would remain in government and shift his full focus to his ministerial responsibilities.
‘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.’
Addressing journalists, Steenhuisen reflected on the DA’s performance under his leadership, including the party’s role in the Government of National Unity and its efforts to broaden its national footprint.
‘This is not the end of the road for the DA, and it is not the end of the road for me. I now have another mission,’ he said.
‘It has been the honour of a lifetime to lead the party. For three elective conferences, we have done some great things, and today, I simply say, “mission accomplished”.’
Steenhuisen’s announcement confirms earlier reports and now paves the way for a new leader to emerge, as reported by MoneyWeb. One prominent figure expected to enter the race is Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, who has been widely viewed as a potential successor should the leadership position become vacant.
Hill-Lewis previously indicated that he would give serious thought to contesting the leadership if Steenhuisen does not stand, while making it clear he has no intention of joining the national cabinet.
The Cape Town mayor has previously backed the DA’s ongoing involvement in the government of national unity, although he has stressed that the party’s role within the coalition would need to be strengthened and better defined going forward.
The Democratic Alliance’s Federal Congress is expected to elect a new leadership team in April.
Picture: @CapricornFMNews / X
John Steenhuisen is expected to confirm he will not stand for re-election as Democratic Alliance leader when he addresses the media in Durban on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, an update that follows earlier reporting of a leadership shift.
Cape {town} Etc Discount Alert! Unlock Cape Town’s best experiences for half the price! From unforgettable adventures to hidden gems and mouthwatering restaurants, these limited-time deals won’t last long. Snag your discount before they’re gone!
Party sources and MoneyWeb say his decision opens the field for Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, who has signalled he would seriously consider a leadership bid if Steenhuisen steps aside .
Steenhuisen also serves as South Africa’s Minister of Agriculture. Several farming groups have publicly questioned Steenhuisen’s handling of the foot-and-mouth disease crisis, citing delays in containment measures and the economic strain caused by prolonged export restrictions. Sunday World reports that some farmers have since taken legal action.
Analysts say the timing concentrates political and practical pressure on the DA: members must choose a leader who can rebuild electoral trust while the agriculture portfolio faces urgent containment and trade challenges. ‘This is about leadership and livelihoods,’ a political analyst said.
The DA will hold its federal elective congress in April, formal nominations open on 24 February. Party officials have asked members and the public to await Steenhuisen’s statement in Durban.
Be the first to know – Join our WhatsApp Channel for content worth tapping into! Click here to join!
Also read:
Picture: Deaan Vivier / Gallon Images
