Tony Leon warns DA internal strife is a distraction ahead of watershed 2026 elections

Former Democratic Alliance (DA) leader Tony Leon says the battle between party leader John Steenhuisen and former MP Dion George—who resigned on Thursday—is a distraction in what should be a watershed election year for the party.

On Thursday, George, a former minister, accused Steenhuisen of abusing his position both in the party and in government. The allegations were detailed in a resignation letter he read out during a television broadcast. George’s relationship with the DA soured after he was axed by Steenhuisen as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment last October.

Leon says while he is loath to comment on the veracity of George’s claims or the personalities involved, experience has taught him to treat resignation letters with circumspection.

The DA enters a critical period in 2026. The party is aiming to outperform its previous results in the upcoming local government elections, particularly within metro municipalities.

Furthermore, delegates are preparing to choose a leader to take the party forward during an electoral conference in April.

Instead of focusing on these goals, Leon notes the party is currently waging factional battles, which he describes as "not a good look."

"To be involved in an internal wrangle is not a great start to what should really be a crunch election year."

Leon suggests that Dion George’s allegations against Steenhuisen could serve as a catalyst for the party to take stock of its position within the Government of National Unity (GNU) and evaluate its leadership choices.

"Is this person the very best person to achieve this party’s goals? That should be the question. If that is answered in an effective way, I think what you are seeing at the moment will tend to become background noise."

With George having quit the party, Steenhuisen is now set to face party disciplinary proceedings alone to determine whether his actions have brought the party into disrepute.