John Steenhuisen
1Min
South Africa
Nov 19, 2025
DA leader John Steenhuisen is under pressure following the controversial firing of Dion George as minister. Records show he had a default judgment against him for nearly R150,000 in unpaid credit card debt, raising questions about his financial stability and potential influence from lobby groups.
John Steenhuisen, leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), is attracting sharp scrutiny after the party’s decision to dismiss Dion George, the former Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
The controversy deepened when reports emerged that Steenhuisen was subject to a default judgment in the Cape Town Magistrates’ Court earlier this year, linked to nearly R150,000 in unpaid personal credit card debt.
The timing of these financial revelations has fueled speculation among critics that a financially vulnerable politician could be more susceptible to external pressure—particularly from powerful lobby groups. Some insiders argue that George’s ousting may have been tied to his unwillingness to align with certain interests, including hunting-sector lobbyists.
Steenhuisen has denied that his financial status played a role and framed the change in the DA’s cabinet lineup as a strategic move to deliver competence and integrity. In a statement, he highlighted that his request to reshuffle DA leadership in the executive was meant to strengthen the party’s reform agenda.
