Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has reiterated government’s stance on the Expropriation Act, stressing that no one in South Africa will “have their land confiscated”.
“The Expropriation Act sets out a clear legal framework under which expropriation may take place, always with due process and court oversight,” Macpherson said.
Speaking on the sidelines of the Mining Indaba in Cape Town on Monday, Macpherson said land grabs will never be allowed when the law is applied.
“…Section 25 of the Constitution enshrines property rights in the highest law of our country,” Macpherson said.
He said the Government of National Unity (GNU) will always put the interests of South Africa first.
“This government is committed to working with international partners, not against them, [and] to ensure investor confidence remains strong.
“…I am also committed to ensuring that [this Act] is constitutional and that there will be no arbitrary land grabs by the State in South Africa.
“Property rights are not only about protecting investments but also about ensuring that the rule of law is upheld in all sectors of society.
“It has been proven globally that infrastructure investment is one of the most effective ways to drive a country’s economic expansion and job growth.
“Countries that have prioritised strategic infrastructure development have seen direct increases in GDP, stronger industrial output, and greater employment opportunities. As the Government of National Unity, we have made this a priority,” Macpherson said.
On Monday morning, President Cyril Ramaphosa – through a statement issued by The Presidency – said the South African government is looking forward to engaging with its US counterparts on the matter.
“We look forward to engaging with the Trump administration over our land reform policy and issues of bilateral interest. We are certain that out of those engagements, we will share a better and common understanding over these matters,” the Presidency said.
Furthermore, the Presidency emphasised that the Act is “not a confiscation instrument, but a constitutionally mandated legal process that ensures public access to land in an equitable and just manner as guided by the Constitution”.
The Expropriation Act states that property may not be expropriated arbitrarily or for a purpose other than a public purpose or in the public interest.
The Expropriation Act, which underwent a five-year public consultation process, was deliberated in Parliament, and is in line with the South African Constitution.
The Act repeals the Expropriation Act of 1975 and allows for the State to expropriate land in the public interest – subject to just and equitable compensation. – SAnews.gov.za
Watch a Public Works Minister weighs in on Expropriation Act related video:
Stunning South Africa:
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