John Steenhuisen steps down as DA federal leader, citing a stronger party position
via The Citizen3 min read
Outgoing DA federal leader John Steenhuisen announced his departure from the position at the party's elective congress in Johannesburg, stating he leaves the party in a significantly stronger state. Steenhuisen, who took over from Mmusi Maimane in 2019, highlighted that he was entrusted with rebuilding the party, a mandate renewed twice. He noted that in 2019, the DA was polling at 16%, divided, and facing a crisis of confidence, with media proclaiming its demise. Steenhuisen detailed how he navigated the party through the COVID-19 pandemic and a local government election, leading to growth. He emphasized that the DA is now polling close to 30% and, for the first time, co-governs South Africa through a government of national unity. Steenhuisen described this as a "mission accomplished," expressing pride in handing over leadership, asserting the DA is now stronger, larger, more relevant, and influential than ever before, transforming from a regional party to a national force for reform. He offered advice to incoming leaders, stressing the solid foundations built and the timeless values defended, with the mission to become the largest party in South Africa remaining urgent. Steenhuisen expressed gratitude to his staff, family, and DA members, and stated he will now focus on his ministry in government, support the new leadership, and campaign for the party in upcoming local government elections.
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The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Education has launched an independent investigation into allegations that teaching posts within the department are being sold for money and sexual favors. The probe was initiated after a viral social media video surfaced, reportedly showing the wife of the department's head of communications, Muzi Mahlambi, accusing him of involvement in these activities. In the video, she claims female teachers either paid money or exchanged sexual favors to secure employment. Head of Department Nkosinathi Ngcobo ordered the independent investigation, emphasizing that the department views these allegations seriously as they impact public administration integrity and public trust. The department stated the investigation will be fair, credible, and impartial, considering all relevant evidence without fear or prejudice. They urged the public to provide any credible information to the investigating body or law enforcement authorities, committing to act decisively on the findings.
The MK party has defended its decision to appoint eThekwini's former mayor Zandile Gumede as the party's deputy convenor in KwaZulu-Natal, despite her ongoing trial for fraud, corruption, and money laundering related to a R320 million Durban Solid Waste tender. Gumede's appointment was announced at a press briefing in Durban. MK party secretary-general Sibonelo Nomvalo stated that the party is a political organization and not prosecutors, and therefore, criminal cases do not prevent a member from joining or taking a position. He added that questions about Gumede's legal issues are not relevant to her appointment. Political analyst Theo Neethling noted that Gumede's defection is significant because she remains on trial, and her charges did not hinder her acceptance by the MK party. Neethling suggests the party prioritizes electoral advantage and organizational strength over reputational risks, especially in securing metropolitan strongholds like eThekwini. This approach aligns with the party's narrative, which, given its leader Jacob Zuma's own legal challenges, often portrays criminal charges as politically motivated.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed South Africa鈥檚 condolences following the death of former Qatari Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who passed away on Sunday, 12 July 2026, at 74 years old. Ramaphosa described Sheikh Hamad as a visionary leader whose "legacy of peace, prosperity and global influence continues to inspire the world." He extended sympathies to Qatar's Royal Family, government, and people, highlighting South Africa's close friendship with Qatar. Ramaphosa noted that Qatar, under Sheikh Hamad's leadership, became a model of peace, development, prosperity, and global influence. Sheikh Hamad's 18-year rule saw Qatar transform from an economy reliant on oil to the world's largest exporter of liquefied natural gas, with one of the highest per capita incomes, achieved through strategic investment in productive assets, financial institutions, infrastructure, and human capital.