DA Defends Minister Gwarube Amid Tensions Over Bela Act Implementation

As the deadline for the implementation of contentious sections of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Act approaches, the Democratic Alliance (DA) has made it clear that removing Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube from her position is not an option. This comes amid increasing political tensions surrounding the Act and its implementation.

DA spokesperson Karabo Khakhau emphasized that the DA is fully behind Minister Gwarube. “The basic education ministry is a Democratic Alliance ministry. Nobody gets to tell the DA who occupies that seat,” he said, firmly rejecting any attempts to remove her.

The Bela Act, passed by Parliament in October 2023 and signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa in September 2024, has sparked significant controversy. While its aim is to address historical inequalities in education by clarifying the roles of school governing bodies and provincial heads of departments regarding admissions and language policies, some of its provisions have raised concerns. Sections 4 and 5, which aim to correct language and admission policies that have excluded black learners in the past, have been delayed by Ramaphosa to allow for further discussions.

Khakhau also addressed the growing speculation that Gwarube could be removed from her position due to her opposition to certain aspects of the Act. He stated that the DA would use all legal avenues, including the courts, to ensure the Act is implemented in a way that protects South Africans’ rights, highlighting the party’s commitment to the rule of law.

Minister Gwarube, while facing pressure from within the ANC, remains committed to seeing the Act implemented. She has acknowledged the polarizing nature of the discussions but believes that the Act, in its entirety, will be implemented with necessary adjustments to ensure its success. “We are committed to making sure we implement Bela, particularly those sections that have not been postponed,” Gwarube stated. “There are positive aspects to the Act, like making Grade R compulsory, which will ultimately improve matric results.”

While tensions continue around the Act’s full implementation, Gwarube reiterated her stance on ensuring equal access for poor black learners, emphasizing the DA’s commitment to inclusivity in South Africa’s educational system. The matter is expected to reach a resolution soon, with the deadline for the implementation of key sections looming.

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