An open letter from ActionSA national chairperson Michael Beaumont to former Democratic Alliance leader Tony Leon has sparked renewed political tension within South Africa’s Government of National Unity (GNU).

The letter raises concerns about alleged lobbying activities by Resolve Communications, a public relations firm chaired by Leon, suggesting that its proximity to senior DA ministers may have been used to advance the interests of private clients.

Beaumont argues that recent allegations, including claims from former DA ministers, point to a possible pattern of undue influence and what he describes as behaviour resembling ‘state capture’.

Central to the controversy are claims that Resolve Communications allegedly facilitated meetings between government officials and major clients, including references to Elon Musk’s Starlink and engagements with the Minister of Communications, Solly Malatsi.

The letter also references accusations that the firm may have influenced ministerial decisions, including pressure on former ministers and involvement in political processes such as meetings with party leadership figures and government stakeholders.Tony Leon has strongly rejected these allegations, describing them as politically motivated and lacking evidence.He maintains that Resolve Communications operates as a legitimate corporate entity engaged in standard lobbying practices.

However, ActionSA disputes this position and has called for an independent investigation by the President into the firm’s activities and its interactions with government representatives.

The dispute unfolds against the backdrop of heightened political competition within the GNU and ongoing scrutiny of lobbying practices in South Africa.ActionSA has also indicated that it will pursue parliamentary questions and seek formal hearings to interrogate the matter further.

The situation continues to intensify as opposition parties demand greater transparency, while the DA and Leon’s associates reject claims of wrongdoing.