Multiple reports on 3 February 2026 indicate that Democratic Alliance leader John Steenhuisen plans to withdraw from the party's leadership race. Sources within the DA confirm he will not seek re-election at the federal congress in April 2026.

Steenhuisen has led the DA since November 2019. He serves as Minister of Agriculture in the Government of National Unity. The announcement comes after recent controversies, including his axing of former DA finance head Dion George and handling of the foot-and-mouth disease outbreak.

Internal tensions fuel John Steenhuisen DA leadership change

Party insiders point to growing divisions as a key factor. Steenhuisen faced criticism over his leadership style, including a soured relationship with federal council chairperson Helen Zille and pressure from donors.

The DA has lost support among rural coloured voters in the Western Cape and moderate Afrikaners, according to analysis from Solidariteit's Jaco Kleynhans on X. Tensions exist between the parliamentary caucus and GNU members.

Upcoming municipal elections add urgency, as the party seeks a leader to rally voters. Potential candidates include Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde, and Communications Minister Solly Malatsi. Hill-Lewis emerges as a frontrunner and may run unopposed.

“Until you see me outlining the full set of facts tomorrow, avoid speculation,” Steenhuisen stated on X.

DA officials decline to confirm

DA spokesperson Jan de Villiers described the reports as rumours and declined official comment on 3 February 2026. Steenhuisen's spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment by publication time. The party scheduled a media briefing for 4 February 2026 in Durban to address matters of national importance.