JOHANNESBURG - The timing of reports that DA leader, John Steenhuisen’s, plans to step aside from the party’s leadership race is hard to ignore.
On Tuesday, Steenhuisen took to social media and said he would make an announcement of national importance at 10am on Wednesday.
He urged the public to avoid speculation until he had outlined the full set of facts.
Tomorrow at 10am, I will make an announcement of national importance. Until you see me outlining the full set of facts tomorrow, avoid speculation. pic.twitter.com/IUCYhnLixj
— John Steenhuisen MP (@jsteenhuisen) February 3, 2026
This move comes amid internal tensions within the party, including a highly publicised rift between Steenhuisen and former DA Federal Chairperson, Dion George.
In an exclusive interview with eNCA, George blasted Steenhuisen for his poor party leadership and the alleged misuse of the party’s credit card on UberEats, fancy hotels and car rentals.
READ | Uber Eats, car rentals and fancy hotels – George spills tea on Steenhuisen’s alleged
More backlash followed Steenhuisen as Agriculture Minister where he faced mounting pressure from big business over his response to the foot and mouth disease outbreak.
READ | South Africa ramps up vaccinations as foot-and-mouth hits herds
According to Political Analyst Sandile Swana, business support has always been important for the DA.
Swana defines this period as the undoing of Steenhuisen but said he does not think it’s the end of his political career.
He argues that Western political systems are often forgiving of controversy, suggesting that Steenhuisen may be repositioned into another role rather than shown the door.