The Democratic Alliance (DA), the second-largest party in South Africa's governing coalition, is moving to clean house. New party leader Geordin Hill-Lewis has formally requested that President Cyril Ramaphosa remove John Steenhuisen from his post as agriculture minister.
This decisive move comes as the DA seeks to distance itself from the fallout of a devastating foot-and-mouth disease outbreak that crippled the nation's livestock industry under Steenhuisen’s watch.
Farmers across the country have been vocal in their criticism of the former party leader’s failure to contain the crisis, and Hill-Lewis is now positioning Willie Aucamp—a farmer himself—to take over the portfolio with a mandate to resolve the ongoing legal and operational failures.
Steenhuisen, who previously faced a financial scandal that forced him to abandon his re-election bid as party leader, is now facing the consequences of his tenure. While he was previously slated for a demotion to deputy minister of trade and industry, the party is clearly signaling that no position is guaranteed.
Hill-Lewis has maintained a firm stance since taking the reins in April, stating clearly that 'no-one is entitled to any office or position' and that all appointees are subject to performance reviews.
Political analysts note that the DA is eager to regain the trust of the agricultural community ahead of upcoming local elections, signaling a shift away from the cozy relationship Steenhuisen cultivated with the ANC.
The proposed cabinet reshuffle also includes several other key appointments, as the party attempts to reassert its influence within the coalition government.
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