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25 January 2025
Press Statement by Al Jama-Ah in Response to DA Objections on Expropriation Bill and the GNU
Al Jama-Ah has responded to the concerns raised by the Democratic Alliance (DA) during their recent press conference regarding the operations of the Government of National Unity (GNU) and the signing of the Expropriation Land Act.
Firstly, it is important to note that the GNU is fully subject to the laws and regulations established by the past six Parliaments. The complaint that the GNU is not accountable to the laws arising from the 6th Parliament lacks any legal standing. The President has upheld the constitutional integrity of the process, having issued a certificate of constitutional compliance through the Office of the State Advisor, with input from Parliament’s Law and Constitutional Committee. Any further matters regarding irrational processes can and should be addressed by the courts, as the DA claims.
Furthermore, it is vital to clarify that the GNU cannot override Parliament; rather, it functions as an extension of the Presidency. The DA, as part of the coalition, signed a statement of intent agreeing to follow the processes leading to cabinet decisions, which are initiated by a cabinet memo. The DA should make use of this formal process. The DA’s Minister of Home Affairs previously attempted to raise concerns but submitted a poorly constructed memo, causing his proposal to lack the necessary backing, despite the fact that Al Jama-Ah supported the spirit of the proposal, much to the dismay of some ANC members. The issues now raised by the DA should have been addressed during the public participation process or within the portfolio committee of public works.
The recent gains of the GNU, including the strengthening of the rand and investments, are a result of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s tireless efforts. We have yet to see the DA actively engaging with captains of industry to encourage the release of their large cash holdings into the economy. The clearing mechanism, praised by all ten parties within the GNU, has made significant strides in improving our economic landscape. It is unfortunate that the DA now seeks to undermine these successes.
Al Jama-Ah remains committed to working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the government, and we encourage the DA to engage in constructive dialogue to ensure the continued success of the GNU for the benefit of all South Africans.
Issued by:
Asghar Khan on behalf of Al Jama-ah