Picture: Former DA leader, John Steenhuisen
By OBAKENG MAJE
17 June 2026 – The Democratic Alliance (DA) leader, Geordin Hill-Lewis said following a careful assessment of the DA’s team in the Government of National Unity (GNU), he has written to the Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa setting out several changes to the Democratic Alliance’s representation in the National Executive. Hill-Lewis said it is his judgement that the renewed team announced today will strengthen the DA’s contribution to government and give better effect to the mandate received from 3.5 million voters in the 2024 elections.
He further said Willie Aucamp will replace John Steenhuisen as Minister of Agriculture. Hill-Lewis added that during his tenure, Steenhuisen spearheaded the expansion of market access for South Africa’s agricultural products, and made progress in the procurement and distribution of vaccines for Foot-and-Mouth disease (FMD).
“Aucamp’s immediate mandate is to resolve on-going 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. Aucamp will also further the work of opening new markets to our agricultural products to help grow the economy and create jobs.
“David Maynier will take up the position of Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment. He has had a distinguished career leading frontline portfolios in the National Assembly and the Western Cape Government, and I have every faith in his ability to make a positive impact in the national Cabinet,” said Hill-Lewis.
He said Steenhuisen will replace Alexandra Abrahams as Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, where he will focus on the successes, he has achieved in expanding market access and now adding new areas of work in supporting industrial growth, improving competitiveness, and working with business and labour to help unlock job creation. Abrahams moves to the role of Deputy Minister of Electricity and Energy.
“She brings tenacity, discipline and a reform-minded approach to one of the country’s most crucial growth portfolios. Yusuf Cassim, who has served on the Portfolio Committee on Higher Education and has roots in student politics, will be appointed Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training.
“Jack Bloom, the longest-serving member of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature and a veteran campaigner for good governance, will take up the position of Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation. These changes demonstrate Democratic Alliance values in action,” said Hill-Lewis.
He said they believe in accountability in public office, high standards of performance and responsiveness to the needs of South Africans. Hill-Lewis said it is my firm expectation that each person representing the DA in government must unmistakably demonstrate the “DA difference” in action.
“That requires government rooted in our philosophical outlook, with higher standards of public service, and absolute commitment to integrity. In every decision I take, no matter how difficult, I seek to advance the attainment of an open, opportunity society for all – a society in which every person can live a life of value.
“These changes will enhance the DA’s ability to give effect to that vision for South Africa,” he said.
The Guardian 