Former Democratic Alliance (DA) leader and outgoing Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has triggered a fresh political controversy after alleging that lobbying activities linked to former DA leader Tony Leon and public affairs firm Resolve Communications exerted undue influence within the party and government.
Speaking in an interview published on Sunday, Steenhuisen claimed that Resolve Communications, chaired by Leon and led by former DA chief executive Paul Boughey, enjoyed privileged access to DA ministers and played a significant role in shaping public narratives and internal party dynamics.
Steenhuisen said he had repeatedly raised concerns about the firm’s influence, arguing that the relationship created governance risks and blurred the line between private lobbying and public decision-making.
The allegations have prompted calls for an independent investigation. ActionSA on Monday urged President Cyril Ramaphosa to institute a formal inquiry into Steenhuisen’s claims, describing the allegations as potentially resembling “state capture-style” privileged access to government decision-makers.
The party also called for the Public Service Commission to examine whether ethical standards governing executive conduct had been compromised.
The African National Congress (ANC) also called for the allegations to be thoroughly investigated, arguing that claims by a serving Cabinet minister regarding possible improper lobbying and influence over government officials warrant independent scrutiny. The governing party said the seriousness of the accusations required transparency to protect public confidence in the Government of National Unity.
The controversy comes amid heightened tensions between the DA and the ANC following disputes over Cabinet appointments and governance.
The DA recently withdrew from the planned National Dialogue and announced it would oppose budget votes for ministers facing corruption allegations unless action is taken by President Ramaphosa.
Neither Leon nor Resolve Communications responded to Steenhuisen’s allegations.
The claims remain allegations, and it is not publicly established that any laws or ethical rules were breached.
