John Steenhuisen is expected to confirm he will not stand for re-election as Democratic Alliance leader when he addresses the media in Durban on Wednesday, 4 February 2026, an update that follows earlier reporting of a leadership shift.
Party sources and MoneyWeb say his decision opens the field for Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, who has signalled he would seriously consider a leadership bid if Steenhuisen steps aside .
Steenhuisen also serves as South Africa's Minister of Agriculture. Several farming groups have publicly questioned Steenhuisen's handling of the foot-and-mouth disease crisis, citing delays in containment measures and the economic strain caused by prolonged export restrictions. Sunday World reports that some farmers have since taken legal action.
