DA Leadership Tensions Heat Up as Steenhuisen and Dion George Clash Ahead of 2026 Congress

Factional Tensions Rock the DA Ahead of 2026 Leadership Race

The Democratic Alliance (DA) is entering a turbulent period as internal rivalries and leaks reveal cracks in the party’s leadership ahead of next April’s federal congress. At the center of the storm are party leader John Steenhuisen and former Environment, Forestry and Fisheries Minister Dion George, whose removal from the cabinet portfolio has sparked allegations, rumours, and pointed disputes.

Insiders suggest that the escalating mudslinging and factional infighting is an early signal of the high-stakes leadership contest to come. Steenhuisen is expected to contest his final term as DA leader, and sources say some party members are already positioning themselves for the transition.

Leaked Allegations and Controversies

The public dispute has been punctuated by controversial leaks and allegations, though The Citizen has refrained from publishing potentially defamatory claims regarding George’s behaviour in office. Rumours circulating within and outside the party suggested office bullying, excessive international travel, and inappropriate conduct.

George, for his part, has hinted at powerful forces in the hunting and wildlife lobbying sector, adding another layer to the controversies surrounding his dismissal. Some party insiders have also reportedly questioned George’s dual citizenship, using it as a point of contention in the unfolding internal battles.

“The hunting lobby in South Africa is extremely powerful,” George told reporters, signalling that his removal was politically motivated rather than purely performance-based.

Steenhuisen acknowledged receiving complaints from a former staffer about George but described the matter as resolved internally. He said George had attributed the allegations to jealousy and office dynamics, insisting no formal wrongdoing had been established.

Financial Scrutiny Adds Fuel to the Fire

The tensions have not been one-sided. Steenhuisen himself has come under scrutiny after a default judgment of nearly R150 000 emerged against him for unpaid personal credit card debt earlier this year. Critics questioned why such a situation occurred during his tenure as a minister, earning an annual salary of R2.69 million.

George, who oversees the DA’s finances, confirmed that Steenhuisen’s party credit card had been revoked due to reconciliation issues. Steenhuisen defended his actions, saying he voluntarily returned the card because the administrative process was cumbersome and that his personal finances were unrelated to party integrity.

Analysts Warn of Escalating Factional Battles

Political analyst Ongama Mtimka said the Steenhuisen-George feud illustrates how incumbency can strain internal unity.

“This is a familiar pattern in South African politics: personal and financial controversies are often used as weapons when internal competition heats up,” Mtimka explained.
“The DA is experiencing something the ANC has dealt with for years. Access to power and patronage raises the stakes, and internal battles can become aggressive.”

Mtimka added that the DA has historically avoided such high-profile national-level factional battles, with previous disputes largely confined to provincial or local arenas.

Party Response and Grassroots Sentiment

Despite the media attention, party insiders suggest that most DA members continue to support Steenhuisen. Meanwhile, George is reportedly facing resistance within certain party circles, though some sources note that the pair have managed their internal differences better than past spats.

For now, the simmering tensions appear likely to intensify as the 2026 federal congress approaches, with both sides maneuvering to secure allies and influence the party’s future leadership landscape.

As one member put it: “The DA is facing a turning point. How this plays out could redefine the party’s internal culture and its approach to leadership for years to come.”