DA leadership race heats up ahead of April congress

Nominations for the leadership of the Democratic Alliance are set to open on February 28, stirring anticipation within the party as its current leader, John Steenhuisen, has announced his intention to not run for a third term.

Speaking during his "moonlight speech" in Durban this week, Steenhuisen expressed confidence in his leadership while emphasising his commitment to addressing the urgent crisis of Foot-and-Mouth Disease affecting farmers.

“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 stated.

He further articulated that juggling both the re-election campaign and the pressing agricultural crisis would be unfair to farmers who rely on effective leadership.

His announcement paved the way for potential challengers, as Western Cape DA leader Tertius Simmers noted that the nomination process is designed to ensure stability and democratic participation within the party.

“There are clear constitutional processes of the DA, which are designed to ensure continuity, stability, and democratic participation, rather than uncertainty and disruption,” Simmers said.

The forthcoming Federal Congress in April looms large, as crucial positions, including the federal leader and chairperson of the federal council, currently held by Helen Zille, will be contested.

Also to be contested is the finance post previously held by former minister Dion George, who resigned from the party after a fallout with Steenhuisen.

One of the most talked-about contenders is Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis.

He confirmed that many within the party have urged him to consider the role of federal leader, although he promised to adhere to the DA’s internal campaign rules, which prevent any public campaigning until the nominations open.

However, Hill-Lewis remains dedicated to his role as mayor, highlighting the importance of the DA's performance in local governance as a stepping stone for the upcoming elections.

“If I do stand for election as DA leader, I would welcome a robust and principled process focused on competing ideas for the future of our party and our country,” he affirmed.

Speculation also surrounds Dean Macpherson, Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, who may run to replace Zille as she pivots her ambitions towards contesting the Johannesburg Metro mayoral position.

Macpherson has refrained from making any declarations regarding his future within the party, focusing instead on his current ministerial responsibilities.

“I think that anyone who speculates on any position or makes announcements before the 27th of February should desist and let’s see what comes out,” he remarked.

Additionally, Basic Education Minister Siviwe has also been touted as a possible candidate after she laid bare her ambitions in one of the interviews.

Gwarube is on record having indicated she was running for one of the leadership positions in the DA.

“I will announce it as soon as the nomination process opens,” she said previously.

Other names bandied about are those of Gauteng provincial leader Solly Msimang and Communications and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi, who have yet to make a stand on whether they will stand for any positions.

Unisa political analyst Professor Dirk Kotze said Steenhuisen’s decision reflected a conscious political shift rather than a collapse of authority.

“Steenhuisen’s action clearly indicates that he sees his future as a minister and not anymore as a DA leader,” Kotze said.

In his view, Steenhuisen, whom he said will most possibly be regarded as a transitional leader of the DA, is now focused on consolidating his role as Minister of Agriculture, where success could secure his long-term political legacy.

“If he can gain control over the Foot-and-Mouth epidemic, it will be a major achievement for him and be his lasting legacy.”

North-West University political analyst, Professor André Duvenhage, said it was a big mistake on the side of Steenhuisen to keep both positions with the DA going into an electoral conference in a couple of months, and a portfolio like Agriculture, which is very challenging

“Both environments developed major challenges, and the combination created the perfect storm, which blew John Steenhuisen away,” said Duvenhage.

According to Duvenhage, the months ahead will be marked by “huge positioning in the party and build-up to the election” as different leaders attempt to shape the DA’s ideological and strategic future.

mayibongwe.maqhina@inl.co.za and lilita.gcwabe@inl.co.za