JOHANNESBURG, 4 February 2026 — The Democratic Alliance has marked the conclusion of John Steenhuisen’s six-year term as federal leader, signalling a leadership transition within South Africa’s largest opposition party.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the DA reflected on Steenhuisen’s tenure, which spanned a period of electoral contests, internal consolidation and significant political realignment at national level.
The party said his leadership coincided with the DA’s participation in the 2021 local government elections and the 2024 national and provincial elections, during which it sought to broaden its support base and reinforce its role as a central opposition force.
The DA also referenced its entry into national government following the 2024 election as a key development during Steenhuisen’s time as leader. According to the party, efforts to foster cooperation among opposition parties — including the initiation of the Moonshot Pact — contributed to the formation of the Government of National Unity.
Steenhuisen has since turned his full attention to his role as Minister of Agriculture in the unity government. The DA said this transition comes amid ongoing challenges facing the sector, including a foot-and-mouth disease outbreak affecting parts of the country.
The party indicated that Steenhuisen’s focus will now be on agricultural policy, rural development and food security, areas overseen by his department.
The statement comes as the DA prepares for its next phase of leadership, following Steenhuisen’s departure from the federal leader position.