Dion George, the Democratic Alliance's longstanding federal finance chair, has resigned from the party, Parliament, and his membership in a dramatic public broadcast. He accused leader John Steenhuisen of misusing party funds and claimed records were tampered with to cover it up. The DA questions the timing of the resignation, following George's removal from cabinet last year.
Dion George, who served the Democratic Alliance (DA) for 31 years as a Member of Parliament and federal finance chair, announced his resignation on national television on January 15, 2026. In his letter, George alleged that DA leader John Steenhuisen abused the party's credit card for irregular expenses and that party records were retrospectively tampered with to declare the spending 'fully reconciled.' He also claimed the DA has been captured by the African National Congress (ANC) through Steenhuisen's actions, which he said led to his ousting.
The DA's internal investigation, however, found no evidence that Steenhuisen misappropriated funds. Party federal executive chair Helen Zille issued a brief statement noting that a disciplinary inquiry into Steenhuisen would proceed, but did not address George's tampering claims. By afternoon, George's profile on the DA website had been removed, signaling a swift erasure.
George's departure raises concerns about the party's finances and donor trust. As the key figure in raising record donations, he emphasized the DA's reputation for integrity under his stewardship. Donors, who have consistently favored the DA with the highest contributions, may now question the party's financial controls.
The resignation complicates DA leadership ahead of key dates: a federal congress in April for electing the leader and local government elections in November. Potential successor Cape Town mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis is reportedly being urged by donors to step up, though he has mixed feelings. George has lodged a complaint with the Public Protector regarding Steenhuisen's role in his cabinet removal by President Cyril Ramaphosa in November 2025, where he was replaced by Willie Aucamp as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment.
This high-profile exit, following George's long service, underscores internal tensions and could fuel discussions on party succession and accountability.
