ANC, 'criminal' elements run DA show, claims party veteran Dion George

DA Federal Finance Chairperson Dr Dion George says the party under the leadership of John Steenhuisen has been captured by the ANC and other criminal interests.

This was among the reasons he said were behind his decision to resign from the party on Thursday, citing the “intolerable” situation following months of internal party conflict. His resignation means the end of nearly three decades as a DA member. 

It comes days after the DA cleared Steenhuisen of the allegations made against him by Goerge over the use of the party-issued credit card. 

George had alleged that Steenhuisen misused the credit card for personal expenses, including family household expenses and food orders via Uber Eats. 

George claimed he blocked and removed the card in March 2020 because the expenses could not be reconciled. 

Steenhuisen denied misconduct, stating he voluntarily returned the card because its administration was “onerous” and moved to a reimbursement system. He characterised George's allegations as a “revenge attempt” following his removal from the Cabinet as fisheries, forestry and environment minister.

In its preliminary report into the credit card saga, the DA found  that all expenses were “fully reconciled” and personal costs were reimbursed.

George said the report clearing Steenhusen was the final straw for him, adding that it is a reflection of what the party has become under failed leadership.

He claimed the DA, under Steenhuisen, was  captured by the ANC and other criminal interests. This resulted in the DA being completely muzzled and losing its voice and ability to lead in South Africa’s interest. 

DA Federal Council Chairperson, Helen Zille said it was “unfortunate” that George resigned before the internal disciplinary processes could conclude. 

She said the allegations included irregular staff appointments to his ministerial office and inflated salaries at public expense.

He also faced accusations that staff in his ministry sought departmental information to pursue internal party political matters, bringing the party into disrepute through the media.

“It would have been preferable for Dr George to go through the Federal Legal Commission process to test the veracity of these allegations,” said Zille.

Political analyst Zakhele Ndlovu said the saga  could pose a serious problem, not just for the DA but also for Steenhuisen, as the party prepares to hold its elective conference.

Cape Times