Democratic Alliance leader Geordin Hill-Lewis has proposed a significant reshuffle of the party’s representatives serving in the Government of National Unity (GNU), including the removal of John Steenhuisen as Minister of Agriculture.
In a statement released by the DA, Hill-Lewis recommended that Steenhuisen be reassigned to a deputy ministerial position, with current DA Deputy Leader Willie Aucamp taking over the Agriculture portfolio.
The proposed changes form part of what Hill-Lewis describes as an effort to strengthen the party’s contribution to government and improve service delivery in key sectors facing mounting challenges.
Aucamp’s immediate focus, should the appointment be approved, would be addressing the ongoing Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) crisis affecting South Africa’s agricultural sector.
“Aucamp’s immediate mandate is to resolve ongoing legal proceedings relating to FMD, to work with the entire sector to overcome the crisis and restore confidence through accelerated practical steps to bring the crisis under control,” Hill-Lewis said.
The proposed reshuffle would also see Steenhuisen move to the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition as Deputy Minister, replacing Alexandra Abrahams.
Further changes outlined by the DA leader include the appointment of David Maynier as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. Abrahams would subsequently move to the position of Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy.
Yusuf Cassim, who has served on Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, has been nominated for the role of Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training, while veteran DA politician Jack Bloom has been earmarked as Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation.
Hill-Lewis said the proposed changes reflect the DA’s commitment to accountability, performance and responsiveness within government.
“These changes demonstrate Democratic Alliance values in action. We believe in accountability in public office, high standards of performance, and responsiveness to the needs of South Africans,” he said.
The proposals now await consideration by President Cyril Ramaphosa, who ultimately holds the authority to appoint and dismiss members of the national executive.
The suggested reshuffle comes at a time when the GNU continues to face growing pressure to demonstrate effective governance and deliver tangible outcomes for South Africans across critical sectors such as agriculture, energy, education and water security.