ANC Calls for Independent Investigation into Allegations Against Former DA Leaders
The African National Congress (ANC) has urged an independent probe after former Democratic Alliance (DA) leader John Steenhuisen alleged that former DA leader Tony Leon, current DA leader Geordin Hill‑Lewis, and companies linked to them engaged in improper lobbying on behalf of private interests. The claims were made during a wide‑ranging interview with News24 and subsequently reported by TimesLIVE.
Background of the Allegations
In the interview, Steenhuisen said that Leon, Hill‑Lewis and the public‑relations firm Resolve Communications—founded by former DA CEO Paul Boughey—had allegedly lobbied government officials on matters including the state’s response to the foot‑and‑mouth disease outbreak. He characterised the effort as an attempt to “capture the state of Leon” through coordinated PR activities.
The ANC’s statement described the allegations as “disturbing, damning” and argued that they merit the same level of scrutiny the party has consistently demanded of other public figures. Acting ANC national spokesperson Nonceba Mhlauli emphasised that the fight against corruption must be principled, impartial and free of fear or favour.
ANC’s Position and Call for Scrutiny
The party’s response highlighted three core points:
- An independent investigation must clarify the facts and determine whether any laws, ethical obligations or governance standards were breached.
- No political party, public representative or branch of government should be exempt from transparent public accountability when credible allegations emerge.
- The ANC reiterated its stance that corruption has “no race, no political home and no place in South Africa’s constitutional democracy.”
Mhlauli added that the allegations raise important questions about ethical governance, accountability and potential attacks on the integrity of democratic institutions, stressing that these matters deserve open and transparent discussion to preserve public trust.
Response from Resolve Communications
Resolve Communications issued a statement rejecting the claims outright. The firm said:
“Resolve has not acted in any of the ways that some have maliciously claimed online or elsewhere. Where conclusions to the contrary have been drawn and published, we note this carefully and are actively considering our legal rights.”
The PR firm maintained that it operates as a lawful, transparent and ethical service provider, fully consistent with accepted professional practice in South Africa and internationally. It noted that no evidence had been presented to substantiate the allegations, describing the accusations as “political statements, not facts; accusations, not evidence; and politically opportunistic noise, not substance.”
Implications for Governance and Public Trust
The controversy underscores ongoing concerns about the intersection of private lobbying, public relations and governmental decision‑making in South Africa. Analysts point out that transparent oversight mechanisms are essential to prevent undue influence, particularly when allegations involve former party leaders and influential communications firms.
By calling for an independent investigation, the ANC seeks to reinforce its commitment to accountability—a principle it has repeatedly invoked in previous anti‑corruption campaigns. The outcome of any probe could have broader implications for how lobbying activities are regulated and monitored across the political spectrum.
As the situation develops, stakeholders—including civil society organisations, media outlets and oversight bodies—will be watching closely to see whether the allegations are substantiated and what remedial actions, if any, will be taken to safeguard the integrity of South Africa’s democratic institutions.
