DA risks ANC-style infighting amid internal power struggle says analyst

The Democratic Alliance's Federal Executive has accepted a recommendation to launch a disciplinary inquiry into leader John Steenhuisen and former minister Dion George.

The pair will face the probe following a very public spat, which has thrust tensions within the party back into the spotlight.

It will look at whether either politician breached the party's federal constitution by bringing the party into disrepute.

ALSO READ: Tony Leon warns DA infighting raises questions about party unity and leadership

Political analyst Prof Ntsikelelo Breakfast says the conflict that has broken out within the DA is not based on differing ideologies within the party.

"It's got nothing to do with that. This is just about political competition to hold onto power."

Breakfast warns that the ongoing internal conflict risks damaging the DA’s credibility.

"What has happened is going to dent the image of the DA in a big way."

The dispute between Steenhuisen and George, the party's federal finance chairperson has escalated in recent months.

Steenhuisen has now been cleared of misappropriating party funds, an allegation made by George shortly after he was fired as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment.

Meanwhile, allegations that George was removed from his position under questionable circumstances have now been referred to the Public Protector.

"What we see here is the use of state machinery in pursuit of personal gratification", said Breakfast.

He adds that one could now draw parallels between the DA and the African National Congress (ANC).

"This is what has been happening in the ANC... how is the DA now going to be able to distinguish itself from the ANC?"

Speaking to CapeTalk's John Maytham on Monday, former MP and DA leader Tony Leon admitted there is certainly heightened tension within the party ahead of its forthcoming leadership race.

"I think tension is the right word. Whether it's a war or a local skirmish, one can't say," he said.

To listen to Prof Ntsikelelo Breakfast in conversation with CapeTalk's Clarence Ford, click audio below: