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ANC Stands Firm on Expropriation Bill Despite DA Opposition
The African National Congress (ANC) has remained resolute in its decision to enact the Expropriation Bill, defending the process that led to President Cyril Ramaphosa signing the bill into law. The party rejected accusations from the Democratic Alliance (DA), which claimed that the ANC bypassed its Government of National Unity (GNU) partners in implementing the law.
ANC: A Thorough and Fair Process Was Followed
ANC spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri emphasized that the party adhered to due parliamentary processes, maintaining that the bill’s signing was both fair and legitimate.
“A thorough process of participation in parliament was followed, and the process has run its full course. This is what we stand by as a party,” Bhengu-Motsiri said.
The ANC noted the DA’s ideological opposition, which Bhengu-Motsiri said has long been a source of contention between the two parties, even within the framework of the GNU.
DA Declares Dispute Over the Expropriation Bill
The Democratic Alliance (DA), led by John Steenhuisen, declared a dispute within the GNU, accusing the ANC of failing to consult its partners on the bill. Steenhuisen criticized the nil-compensation clause, which allows for land expropriation without compensation under certain conditions.
Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, Dean Macpherson, added fuel to the debate, stating on social media that he would not enforce the clause, sparking further concerns over the bill’s practical implementation.
Opposition from EFF and Other Parties
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and the MK Party joined the ranks of those opposing the bill, labeling the ANC as “sell-outs” for failing to meet the broader goal of land restitution.
Despite the criticism, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula defended the bill, dismissing dissenters as lacking understanding.
“The government cannot be treated like a stokvel,” Mbalula remarked, urging critics to take the matter to court if dissatisfied.
Public Reaction to the Expropriation Bill
The signing of the Expropriation Bill has sparked widespread debate among South Africans, particularly on social media. Critics have voiced concerns over the government’s ability to manage expropriated land effectively:
- Mark Spuds Freemantle: “The DA should pull out of the GNU. Let the ANC drive the country head-on into a brick wall.”
- Felix Selepe: “The ANC government can’t even maintain simple things like roads, streetlights, and water. What are they going to do with the land?”
Others have accused the ANC of using the bill as a political tool to regain voter support, further polarizing the debate.
The Future of Land Reform
The ANC insists that the Expropriation Bill is a necessary step toward addressing land inequality in South Africa. However, the polarized response from political parties and the public highlights the challenges the government faces in implementing the law effectively.
With opposition parties threatening legal action and public skepticism mounting, the bill’s impact on land reform and the broader economy remains to be seen.
As the ANC defends its position, the debate around land restitution continues to be a focal point of South African politics, with far-reaching implications for the country’s future.
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