John Steenhuisen: Bridging South Africa's Political Divide

John Steenhuisen, leader of South Africa's Democratic Alliance, will not seek reelection. Known for his role in forming a government of national unity after the ANC's 2024 electoral loss, Steenhuisen aims to focus on his duties as agriculture minister, addressing issues like the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Johannesburg | Updated: 04-02-2026 19:23 IST | Created: 04-02-2026 19:23 IST
John Steenhuisen: Bridging South Africa's Political Divide
John Steenhuisen
  • Country:
  • South Africa

John Steenhuisen, leader of South Africa's Democratic Alliance, announced Wednesday his decision to not seek reelection for party leadership at their upcoming conference in April.

Steenhuisen played a pivotal role in forming a government of national unity in 2024, when the ANC lost its parliamentary majority for the first time since 1994. This political shift marked a significant career milestone for him.

Despite internal tensions and cleared allegations of fund misuse, Steenhuisen will continue as Minister of Agriculture, where he focuses on managing the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak, avoiding campaign distractions.

(With inputs from agencies.)

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