How the DA axed its own minister of forestry, fisheries and the environment

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First came Andrew Whitfield’s axing – and now the DA’s had to see the environment minister, Dion George, fired too. This time for failing to toe the Cabinet’s policy lines on COP30 and regulated rhino horn and ivory trading. Allegations, too, of bullying and sexual misconduct suggest that George was deeply unpleasant to work with. Catch our conversation with News24’s new climate correspondent, Ethan van Diemen, next. Later, in our trending topic, the ANC changes tactics for next year’s local government elections. Finally, it just so happens to be an important historical day for the DA’s precursor party, the DP … in On This Day in SA History, heard at the end of the show. You can send our host, broadcast journalist Graeme Raubenheimer, a voice note with your questions or thoughts on the show: 072 562 3179. To advertise in the show: thelead@24.com. Full editions drop Monday through Thursday at 19:00 on Spotify, Apple and YouTube. The Lead is currently sponsored by 10X Investments.
Chapters
  • 00:01 Graeme's intro
  • 01:30 Crossing to Ethan van Diemen on George's demise
  • 08:47 AD: 10X Investments
  • 17:55 Trending topic: ANC changes poll tactics
  • 19:17 On This Day in SA History: DP origins
17 Nov 2025 English South Africa News · Society & Culture

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