The blue machine enters a new era: Steenhuisen and Zille Bow Out

John Steenhuisen officially steps down as leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA) on Sunday, as the party’s federal congress votes for his successor this morning.

Steenhuisen surprised supporters in February when he announced he would not seek a third term at the helm of the party. However, in his farewell speech at Gallagher Estate in Midrand on Saturday, Steenhuisen said he was bowing out at a time when the party is stronger and more influential than ever before in its 26-year history.

From serving as the party’s chief whip to its leader in opposition, Steenhuisen has overseen the DA’s transition into national government for the first time. He noted that the work the party is performing in its various ministerial portfolios proves the blue machine has the capacity to govern beyond municipal councils and provincial governments.

"The experience of the GNU so far demonstrates that for the first time in South Africa’s history, a future with the DA at its heart, united in diversity, can solve common problems, and that is now within reach," Steenhuisen said.

READ: DA Federal Congress: Delegates gear up to elect new leadership

The party’s second most powerful leader, Helen Zille, is also relinquishing her role as the Chairperson of the Federal Council. She warned that the DA’s future leaders should not take the party’s progress for granted, offering them a final piece of advice.

"Democracy is never finally won. It must be defended again and again, in every generation."

The party is expected to announce its new leadership collective on Sunday afternoon.