John Steenhuisen, leader of the Democratic Alliance (DA), has recently faced criticism over his ability to lead the country with only a high school leaving certificate. However, in a recent interview with the Mail & Guardian, Steenhuisen defended his path and stressed that the Constitution clearly defines who can hold the office of president and what criteria are required.
He pointed out that requiring a college degree for public positions could exclude a large portion of the population, and mentioned renowned leaders such as Winston Churchill who did not have a college degree. For him, experience and commitment on the ground in politics are much more important assets than the paper of a diploma.
In response to criticism of a letter from the DA to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken requesting resources for independent observers in the upcoming election, Steenhuisen defended the move. He also highlighted problems faced by the South African Electoral Commission, particularly regarding the disclosure of candidate lists, and explained that this called into question the credibility of the electoral process.
Despite being frank about his lack of a college degree, Steenhuisen says his experience and political skills speak for themselves. He emphasizes the importance of judging a leader by their actions and abilities, rather than their level of formal education.
Ultimately, this controversy surrounding John Steenhuisen’s academic qualifications raises broader questions about the criteria for leadership and political electability in the current South African context. It highlights the tensions between formal requirements and practical experience, while emphasizing the importance of transparency and legitimacy in the electoral process.