DA leader Geordin Hill-Lewis declares ANC's reign 'over' and vows no tolerance for poor performance

He emphasized his loyalty to the people of South Africa, not individuals, following a complaint from his predecessor, John Steenhuisen, about being unfairly treated after Hill-Lewis requested his removal as agriculture minister. Hill-Lewis indicated that Steenhuisen's demotion might be linked to his handling of foot-and-mouth disease. He also told party members in Johannesburg that he expects high standards, stating that the DA under his leadership will not tolerate poor performance, as his primary loyalty is to the constitution and citizens.

Hill-Lewis explained that the DA joined the government with the ANC to improve lives and prevent "populist" parties from gaining power, but expressed agitation with the ANC's arrogance within the Government of National Unity GNU. He asserted that the DA will no longer remain silent when the ANC refuses to consult or compromise and will publicize decisions made within the GNU. Hill-Lewis chose to remain outside national government to maintain an objective view of the GNU.

He criticized the ANC's three decades in government, citing cadre deployment, state capture, patronage politics, and failed economic policies, declaring that the "party is over" and a "second transition" for South Africa is needed. He argued that black economic empowerment, as implemented, benefited a politically