DA rifts deepen as pressure grows to replace John Steenhuisen as agriculture minister

Internal tensions within the Democratic Alliance are intensifying ahead of the party’s April federal congress, with senior leaders coalescing around Western Cape agriculture MEC Ivan Meyer as a possible successor to John Steenhuisen in the national agriculture portfolio.

Several party figures say momentum is building for a broader reshuffle of the DA’s cabinet positions in the Government of National Unity, driven largely by dissatisfaction with the handling of the foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak and concerns about the party’s credibility among farming communities.

The outbreak, which has disrupted livestock movement and unsettled export markets, has become a focal point for internal criticism. Insiders argue the crisis has dented confidence in the agriculture department and weakened Steenhuisen’s standing, particularly after he confirmed he would not seek a third term as DA federal leader.

One senior party leader, said there was now “broad agreement that agriculture needs a reset,” arguing the response to FMD had harmed the party’s reputation. The disease has been declared a national disaster, with agricultural organisations warning of serious economic consequences if it is not contained.

Steenhuisen has defended the department’s response, noting the outbreak predates his tenure and pointing to improved coordination with provinces. He also acknowledged the strain on producers, saying: “To our farmers who have watched their livelihoods disappear before their eyes, I hear you,” while pledging that the government would “stop at nothing” to eradicate the disease.

Despite this, farmers and industry bodies remain uneasy. AgriSA chief executive Johann Kotzé warned of “the cumulative economic impact” if the outbreak is not swiftly brought under control, particularly for rural towns reliant on livestock.

Within DA structures, Meyer is increasingly seen as the frontrunner to assume the portfolio once a new party leader is elected. Supporters cite his academic background in agricultural economics and experience in the Western Cape, saying he could help rebuild confidence with producers and export partners. Attempts to obtain comment from Steenhuisen and the DA were unsuccessful.

Reports indicate provincial leaders from Gauteng, North West and Limpopo have discussed his candidacy in internal forums. The proposed reshuffle could also affect other DA ministers in the Government of National Unity, including Siviwe Gwarube (Basic Education), Dean Macpherson (Public Works and Infrastructure), Leon Schreiber (Home Affairs), Willie Aucamp (Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment), and Solly Malatsi (Communications and Digital Technologies).

Publicly, the party has sought to downplay talk of succession, projecting an image of unity. However, recent media engagements by some members suggest a more complex internal picture. Earlier in February, IOL reported that Steenhuisen’s future as a minister was uncertain after he announced he would not contest the party leadership.

Political analysts warned that the decision could weaken his position in government. Kedibone Phago, a professor at North-West University, argued that relinquishing the party’s top post reduces Steenhuisen’s leverage within the GNU.

“Stepping down as DA leader in order to focus on being a minister actually weakens his position. Without control over the party, he won’t have influence over who serves in government and he can easily be reshuffled,” Phago said.

Another analyst, Dr Levy Ndou, said South Africa’s political dynamics make it difficult for non-party leaders to retain senior executive roles.

“I don’t see him remaining a minister if he is no longer part of the top leadership,” Ndou said. “In South African politics, cabinet positions are typically reserved for party leaders. If Steenhuisen stays on, the DA would be doing something we have not seen before.”

karabo.ngoepe@inl.co.za