Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen Dismisses Replacement Rumours: “I’m Not Going Anywhere”

Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has firmly dismissed rumours that he is set to be replaced in his ministerial role, calling the claims “absolute hogwash.” Speaking to News24, Steenhuisen said his focus remains on addressing the urgent challenges facing the agricultural sector, particularly the ongoing foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) outbreak.

The speculation follows a report by Mail & Guardian alleging that senior figures within the Democratic Alliance are backing Ivan Meyer, the Agriculture MEC in the Western Cape, as a possible replacement after the party’s upcoming federal congress in April. The report suggests the discussions are linked to criticism over the handling of the foot-and-mouth disease crisis.

Steenhuisen has rejected the claims, emphasizing that his priority is stabilizing the agricultural sector rather than internal political speculation.

Foot-and-mouth disease has significantly affected livestock farmers across South Africa, disrupting production and export activity while placing financial strain on the industry. Steenhuisen reiterated that containing the outbreak remains a top government priority.

Earlier in the month the minister confirmed that he will not seek another term as leader of the Democratic Alliance, signalling a shift toward focusing fully on his executive responsibilities and agricultural recovery efforts.

His comments come at a critical time for South African farmers, who continue to navigate disease outbreaks, rising input costs, and broader economic pressures, while political developments within the DA add another layer of uncertainty to the sector.