DA leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen is expected to announce his withdrawal from the party’s leadership race, multiple party sources have confirmed.
The decision follows rising internal tensions and criticism over his handling of recent issues, including the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak and clashes with senior party figures.
Steenhuisen will address the media on Wednesday in Durban regarding what the DA describes as “matters of national importance and public interest.”
Insiders say his exit from the race would likely leave Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis unopposed for the DA leadership. Federal council chair Helen Zille is reportedly among those backing Hill-Lewis.
Party sources cited several factors behind the move, including dissatisfaction among funders and party members over various controversies, such as his former chief of staff’s conduct, questions about spending, and disagreements with former finance head Dion George.
Steenhuisen is expected to step aside in what insiders have called a “dignified” manner, following negotiations within the party leadership.