Neelam Rahim | neelam@radioislam.co.za

3-minute read

26 January 2025 | 12:30 CAT

ActionSA Considers Legal Action as President Signs Expropriation Bill.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially signed the Expropriation Bill into law, igniting widespread debate over land ownership and compensation policies in South Africa. The bill, which allows for land expropriation without compensation in certain circumstances, has received mixed reactions from political parties and the public.

In an interview with Radio Islam International, ActionSA’s Parliamentary Chief Whip, Lerato Ngobeni, clarified the party’s stance on the matter, emphasizing that while ActionSA does not oppose the bill outright, it remains cautious of potential abuses. “We are not opposed to the bill,” Ngobeni stated. “However, we must ensure that the legislation does not lead to unintended consequences, particularly benefiting political elites rather than the people it aims to serve.”

The bill updates the 1975 Expropriation Act, a piece of apartheid-era legislation that allowed the state to seize land with little to no compensation. According to Ngobeni, ActionSA supports revising outdated laws to align with South Africa’s constitutional principles but insists on robust safeguards. “We need to ensure that public good remains the priority and that expropriation does not become a tool for corruption,” she said.

Concerns have been raised regarding the potential misuse of the law, particularly in urban areas where land and property have been hijacked by criminal syndicates. Ngobeni highlighted the need for strict oversight. “We have seen cases where public officials collude with criminals to exploit state-owned properties. This bill must not open the door for further abuse,” she warned.

Despite its cautious approach, ActionSA has distanced itself from legal challenges initiated by other opposition parties and organizations. “We are not in discussions with the DA or AfriForum to contest the bill in court,” Ngobeni confirmed. “Our focus is on ensuring that the law is implemented justly and fairly.”

The passage of the bill has also sparked broader discussions about land reform in South Africa. Ngobeni pointed out that land expropriation is often met with anxiety but stressed that the real issue lies in the intent and execution of such policies. “South Africa must move past apartheid-era laws, but we must do so responsibly,” she concluded.

With the bill now signed into law, the next step is its implementation. Many will be watching closely to see whether the government can uphold its promise of equitable land redistribution while preventing political exploitation.

Listen to the full interview on The Daily Round Up with Moulana Shuayb Lasanya and ActionSA’s Parliamentary Chief Whip, Lerato Ngobeni, here.