Forestry, Fisheries & the Environment Minister Dion George has reportedly defied the DA's federal executive after being asked to replace Andrew Whitfield as Deputy Minister of Trade & Industry in President Cyril Ramaphosa’s cabinet. Sources within the DA claim George viewed the proposed move as a demotion and prefers to concentrate on his role as the party's head of finances.
According to insiders present at this week’s FedEx meeting, George made his feelings clear. DA leader John Steenhuisen reportedly informed President Ramaphosa of potential changes to the party's deployed ministers during their meeting at the GNU retreat. George was previously mentioned as potentially facing the axe from the DA's cabinet contingent.
Neither George nor Steenhuisen have commented directly on the matter. Steenhuisen stated it would be "premature" to discuss the issue until the President has considered it.
Sources suggest underperformance and a disconnect with stakeholders in his department were factors behind the DA's decision, with concerns raised about George's ability to boost the party's prospects in the 2026 local government elections. One insider claimed George "doesn’t understand that to be a minister you have to work and also be seen to be working."
However, other sources dispute the underperformance claims, suggesting political differences between George and Steenhuisen ahead of the 2026 elective conference may be at play. The offer of a deputy minister post reportedly upset George, particularly given the importance the party places on the Trade & Industry department.
What's Next for the DA and Dion George?
The situation raises questions about internal dynamics within the DA and the future role of Dion George within the party. The coming weeks will likely reveal more about the reasons behind this apparent disagreement and its potential impact on the coalition government.
Key Takeaways:
- Dion George rejects a proposed move to Deputy Minister of Trade & Industry.
- Internal DA sources cite underperformance and political differences as potential factors.
- The situation highlights tensions within the DA leadership.