John Steenhuisen, leader of South Africa’s Democratic Alliance (DA), is under growing scrutiny after reports showed his party credit card was revoked amid alleged “Uber Eats” bills, while he also faces a personal default judgment of nearly R150,000.
According to News24, Steenhuisen is accused of using the DA-issued credit card to pay for family takeaways — including Uber Eats orders. The DA’s federal finance committee reportedly blocked his card because “the account could not be reconciled,” raising red flags within the party.
Separately, Steenhuisen has had a default judgment entered against him in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court for nearly R150,000 in unpaid personal credit card debt. Critics are questioning his financial management, especially given his public office and high-profile role.
Political rivals and analysts are raising serious concerns: ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula has called for lifestyle audits, while some security experts warn that personal debt could make a public figure vulnerable to outside influence. One analyst argued that financial instability in someone with access to sensitive information could pose a national security risk.
On the internal front, these financial revelations may deepen divisions within the DA. Reports suggest some party members, particularly in KwaZulu-Natal, are already preparing to challenge Steenhuisen ahead of next year’s leadership conference. Meanwhile, others argue that his high salary — over R2.6 million a year as a minister — should have put him in a stronger position to manage his debts.
Steenhuisen has not publicly denied the default judgment, but his office has remained mostly tight-lipped amid the escalating drama. The mounting pressure is not only a blow to his personal reputation but could also have serious consequences for his standing within the DA — and in the eyes of the broader public.