DA Leader Demands Sacking of Agriculture Minister Amid Outbreak Fallout

The Democratic Alliance’s newest leader, Geordin Hill‑Lewis, has formally asked President Cyril Ramaphosa to relieve former agriculture minister John Steenhuisen of his duties. The request follows the party’s poor handling of a foot‑and‑mouth disease outbreak that devastated South Africa’s livestock industry.

Hill‑Lewis, who took over from Steenhuisen in April, announced a sweeping revamp of the government’s key portfolios. He wants Willie Aucamp to run the agriculture ministry with a licence to resolve ongoing legal proceedings linked to the outbreak, and proposes David Maynier for environment, Alexandra Abrahams to head deputy electricity, Yusuf Cassim for higher education, and Jack Bloom for water and sanitation.

Steenhuisen, 50, has been a driving force for the party since 2014, steering it into a coalition with the African National Congress after the 2024 general elections. His leadership, however, ended abruptly due to a financial scandal and mounting criticism from farmers over the disease outbreak.

The president remains silent on the request but is unlikely to refuse. Pretoria has been told that political pressure is mounting, especially as the Democratic Alliance holds six posts in the cabinet and several deputy ministers.

Hill‑Lewis’s comments echo a 2023 statement, where he said he would "review the performance" of party appointees and "change the post if it feels right." The speed at which changes are proposed has surprised observers who expected a slower transition.

Despite the political upheaval, the Democratic Alliance has made headlines for supporting President Ramaphosa during a White House confrontation with former U.S. President Donald Trump. Hill‑Lewis’s rivalry has become a backdrop for his latest ministerial demands.

For further context, read BBC’s report on the foot‑and‑mouth crisis: BBC foot‑and‑mouth article.

Additional reporting by Nobuhle Simelane.