Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen has responded to accusations that he ran up his political party’s credit card and splurged on household items and Uber Eats takeaways for his family.
The Democratic Alliance leader reacted to claims made by Dion George, who was recently demoted from Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment to MP, allegedly over an internal squabbling.
In May, Steenhuisen was issued a default judgement after he allegedly failed to pay R150 000 in credit card debt.
JOHN STEENHUISEN RESPONDS TO CREDIT CARD SCANDAL
Speaking to Biz News, John Steenhuisen addressed reports that he had misused an official DA party credit card. He also touched on incurring debt on his personal credit card.
The Minister told host Alec Hogg that “like most South Africans…and with the cost of living, I also feel the pressure”.
He said: “I don’t supplement my income with Woolworths bags full of cash from corrupt individuals. I’m not there using my position as Minister of Agriculture to enrich myself”.
Admitting to running into the red, Steenhuisen continued: “Yes, I did get into some personal financial difficulties, but these were resolved and not unlike what happens to 80% of South Africans on a daily basis.
“I’m proud of the fact that I’ve sorted out my own issues. I didnt go to [Vusi] Cat Matlala and ask him for a bag of cash. I haven’t had to rely on corrupt individuals to supplement my income. I’ve done it myself and will continue to do it.
“I’ve inherited nothing, and I’ve gone on and done everything I achieved through sheer hard work and dedication”.
John Steenhuisen claimed his personal finance was “nobody’s business”, unless, he added, “there are issues of corruption, maladministration, illegal or illicit financial flows”.
The political party leader addressed rumours that Dion George had been sacked as Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, after he accused Steenhuisen of squandering his party’s credit card.
He continued: “It’s completely untrue…There is an investigation currently in the party, and I have nothing to hide. I’ve provided all the statements. I’ve never abused party money or a party credit card ever.”
Steenhuisen threatened legal action after the findings of an internal party investigation were released.
UBER EATS BILL
Last month, Dion George publicly accused John Steenhuisen of misusing an official political party credit for personal items, including ordering Uber Eats for himself and his family.
George – who now serves as DA federal finance chairperson – stated that the card had been removed from the leader.
Steenhuisen – who receives R2,6 million a year as Minister of Agriculture –was criticised by South Africans on social media.
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@our_da
Many were entertained by his apparent love of Uber Eats. Others brought up his apparent weight gain since joining the Government of National Unity (GNU).
