The Democratic Alliance (DA) says its leadership has cleared party leader John Steenhuisen of allegations that he misused party money through a DA-issued credit card. But the party is still pushing ahead with a disciplinary process linked to the very public fallout between Steenhuisen and former minister Dion George.

What the DA Investigation Found

In a media statement, DA Federal Executive chairperson Helen Zille said the Federal Executive adopted a preliminary investigation report led by Federal Legal Commission chair Glynnis Breytenbach.

Zille said the report found the credit card spending had been fully reconciled, with no prima facie evidence of misappropriation. A limited number of personal expenses were identified, but were explained and reimbursed.

The commission also recommended tighter rules for party credit cards, with the Federal Finance Committee tasked to strengthen the policy.

Disciplinary Inquiry Still on the Table

Despite the finding on the credit card, the Federal Executive accepted a recommendation that a disciplinary inquiry be instituted. It will look at whether Steenhuisen or George violated sections of the DA’s federal constitution linked to bringing the party into disrepute, reflecting negatively on the party and undermining internal co-operation.

Zille also warned both sides to stop taking the fight public. The Federal Executive instructed all parties to “cease and desist” from airing disagreements, directly or through proxies, until the legal commission process is finalised. She said the DA constitution provides for loss of membership if that warning is ignored.

Public Protector Complaints add Pressure

The Federal Executive referred further issues to the legal commission process, including allegations about the abuse of government resources and public communication after complaints were submitted to the Public Protector.

It has been reported that George submitted an 84-page affidavit to Public Protector Nompilo Gcaleka. He alleges Steenhuisen interfered in the environment department’s mandate and that his removal from Cabinet was orchestrated in favour of Willie Aucamp. Makinana also reported that Aucamp had approached the Public Protector shortly before, accusing George of abusing state resources.

What Happens Next

Zille said the Federal Executive wants the remaining inquiries handled on an expedited basis. With the DA heading toward an elective congress in April, the internal process is now a high-stakes test of party discipline and unity.