South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed into law a bill that allows the government to seize land without compensation, a move that has sparked debate and controversy within the country. The new law replaces the Expropriation Act of 1975 and provides guidelines for the state to expropriate land based on specific criteria.
The African National Congress (ANC), Ramaphosa's party, has praised the law as a significant milestone in addressing land ownership disparities in the country. However, some government members have expressed concerns about the legality of the law and indicated they may challenge it.
Despite the end of apartheid over 30 years ago, the majority of farmland in South Africa is still owned by the White minority, while Black citizens own only a small fraction. The new law allows for land expropriation without compensation in cases deemed just, equitable, and in the public interest.
Expropriation can occur when land is unused, undeveloped, or poses a public safety risk. The law emphasizes that expropriation must serve a public purpose and cannot be arbitrary. The government must attempt to negotiate reasonable terms with property owners before resorting to expropriation.
The Democratic Alliance (DA), the second-largest party in the government, has voiced strong opposition to the law, citing concerns about the legislative process and the need for proper land restitution measures. The Freedom Front Plus party, which advocates for the rights of the White minority, has vowed to challenge the law and seek amendments if it is found to be unconstitutional.
