Tensions within South Africa’s newly formed Government of National Unity (GNU) flared in Parliament on Thursday as Democratic Alliance (DA) leader and Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen delivered a blistering rebuke to President Cyril Ramaphosa over the abrupt dismissal of DA deputy minister Andrew Whitfield.
Whitfield, axed from his role as deputy minister of Trade, Industry, and Competition, reportedly failed to get approval for an overseas trip in February 2025. But Steenhuisen claimed this reason was a smokescreen, calling it a “calculated political assault” on the DA — the second-largest party in the governing coalition.
Speaking during the Division of Revenue Bill debate, Steenhuisen accused Ramaphosa of blatant “double standards,” suggesting Whitfield was punished not for a procedural misstep but for being too effective in rooting out questionable deals and blocking controversial appointments — particularly in the department linked to the scandal-ridden National Lottery tender.
He sharply contrasted Whitfield’s removal with the continued presence of ANC ministers facing serious allegations. “Why are these ministers untouchable?” Steenhuisen asked, naming Thembi Simelane (embroiled in the VBS scandal), Nobuhle Nkabane (accused of misleading Parliament), and David Mahlobo (linked to state capture), as Parliament erupted in jeers and cheers, notably from EFF benches.
In a pointed challenge to the president, Steenhuisen accused Ramaphosa of bypassing proper GNU channels by failing to consult the DA before firing Whitfield, warning that the move undermines the coalition’s foundation of mutual respect and shared governance.
Despite the political heat, Steenhuisen confirmed that the DA would back the Division of Revenue Bill — for now. But he issued a stark ultimatum: the DA expects a response from Ramaphosa within 48 hours, or the fragile GNU pact could unravel.
“The clock is ticking. Should the ANC fail to meet our ultimatum, all bets are off,” Steenhuisen declared, leaving Parliament and the country to ponder the future of South Africa’s uneasy political alliance.
