A major leadership shift is on the cards inside South Africa’s second-largest political party, with plans in motion for a change at the top when internal elections take place in April.
John Steenhuisen, who has led the Democratic Alliance since 2019, is expected to step aside and not contest another term at the party’s upcoming elective conference. Sources familiar with the situation say a formal confirmation of his decision is due on Wednesday.
At 49, Steenhuisen has come under increasing pressure from within the party, largely driven by disagreements over policy direction while the DA forms part of the country’s coalition government. His exit would open the door 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. Steenhuisen, who also holds the role of minister of agriculture, has declined to say whether he will put his name forward again, noting that nominations only open on February 24.
Hill-Lewis, aged 39, has indicated 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.
With internal elections just weeks away, the Democratic Alliance appears poised for a pivotal moment that could reshape its leadership and influence in national politics.
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