Democratic Alliance leader Helen Zille will not be available for re-election after eight years at the helm.
Zille made the announcement in Johannesburg today following a federal executive meeting.
Zille has led the DA since 2007.
“I always said I will know when time is right, and believe me, I know the time is right,” Zille said.
“It goes without saying, I have every intention of completing my second term as Western Cape premier,” she added.
The announcement comes a month before the party holds its federal congress in Port Elizabeth next month.
Last month, City Press reported that Zille would run uncontested for her position, as she had done since taking over the party.
Nominations for leadership close on 20 April.
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Full statement: Zille won’t be standing for re-election as DA leader