Dion George has resigned from the Democratic Alliance and stepped down as a Member of Parliament, deepening a very public fallout at the top of the party and raising new questions about unity and discipline.

A Senior DA Figure Walks Away

George, who joined the DA in 1995, announced his resignation on Thursday, January 15, 2026. He also resigned as the party’s federal chairperson of finance.

His exit follows weeks of tension linked to his removal from Cabinet in November 2025. He was replaced as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment by Willie Aucamp. George has said he only learnt about the decision through the media while he was attending COP30 in Brazil.

“Captured” Claims and Finance Disputes

George has accused the party leadership under John Steenhuisen of being “captured” by the ANC and alleged criminal interests. He has also criticised what he describes as the DA’s weakening stance inside the Government of National Unity, including backing ANC budgets and policies.

He further called for an independent forensic investigation into the DA’s credit card usage and raised concerns about the handling of party funds. He rejected internal findings linked to the dispute, saying the process did not address the real issues he raised.

The DA Pushes Back

The DA’s leadership has responded by saying George resigned before answering a pending disciplinary process. The party says the allegations against him include claims linked to staff appointments in his ministerial office that allegedly increased salaries at public expense, staff seeking departmental information for internal party political battles and bringing the party into disrepute through the media.

The party has indicated the internal process will continue.

Analysts Split on the Fallout

Political analysts are divided on what Dion George leaves the DA means for the party. Some argue it is a blow to the DA’s credibility, especially with an April federal conference ahead and the 2026 elections on the horizon. Others believe the DA can contain the damage, replace him quickly and move forward without major organisational instability.

Either way, Dion George leaves the DA at a moment when voters are watching whether the party can manage internal conflict while trying to project stability inside the GNU.