Minister of Agriculture Faces Scrutiny Over Blue Light SUVs Amid South Africa’s Economic Struggles
Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen has come under fire for using luxury SUVs fitted with blue lights, despite previously touting a modest Toyota Corolla Cross as a cost-saving measure. The revelation has provoked heated debates about government spending and accountability. Steenhuisen’s explanation and the political fallout from these revelations shed light on the broader issue of state resource management.
Blue Lights Debate
Steenhuisen recently disclosed that he uses three executive vehicles fitted with blue lights as part of his ministerial perks under the Government of National Unity (GNU) Cabinet. The vehicles include a 2018 Audi Q7, a 2019 Toyota Prado, and a 2020 BMW X5, with a combined value of R2.8 million.
The use of blue lights, often criticized as a symbol of political privilege, is permitted under Section 58(3) of the National Road Traffic Act. According to Steenhuisen, these vehicles are equipped with blue lights and sirens for security purposes, managed by VIP protection officers.
The Toyota Corolla Cross Incident
In November 2024, Steenhuisen was seen using a Toyota Corolla Cross at a national executive meeting in Limpopo, describing it as a cost-saving move. He stated at the time:
“More money will be spent on citizens and not on politicians.”
However, ActionSA’s parliamentary inquiry revealed that Steenhuisen enjoys the comfort of high-end vehicles for official duties, raising questions about the sincerity of his earlier statement.
DA Leadership Defends Steenhuisen
Democratic Alliance (DA) Federal Chairperson Helen Zille defended Steenhuisen, clarifying that the vehicles were inherited from his predecessor and came fitted with blue lights by default.
“John inherited those vehicles from his predecessor. They come standard fitted with blue lights. But he does not USE them,” Zille explained on social media.
Former Tshwane mayor Cilliers Brink also came to Steenhuisen’s defence, comparing his approach to that of ActionSA leaders who allegedly use similar resources.
ActionSA’s Criticism
ActionSA MP Dereleen James criticized Steenhuisen for what she termed as “hollow claims” against wasteful expenditure. She highlighted the lavish lifestyles of government officials while basic services like police stations lack adequate resources.
“The bloated billion-rand Cabinet lives in a bubble of luxury and security — paid for by the very taxpayers who are being forced to tighten their belts,” James said.
Public Reaction
The revelations have intensified public scrutiny over government officials’ perks. Many South Africans feel disillusioned by the disconnect between political rhetoric and actions, particularly during challenging economic times.
John Steenhuisen’s blue light SUV controversy highlights the broader debate on accountability and resource allocation in South Africa. As the country grapples with socio-economic challenges, public figures’ spending habits remain under the microscope.
Also read: Parliament’s Farming Interests: Over 30 MPs, Including Ramaphosa, Own Farms
