The Democratic Alliance (DA) is escalating its campaign to abolish Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE). The party is now actively calling on political allies and opponents alike to back its proposed Public Procurement Amendment Bill....Click to Read More >>➤

This legislative push comes despite the DA’s participation in the Government of National Unity (GNU) with the African National Congress (ANC), the very architect of the B-BBEE policy.

On Tuesday, the DA launched a provocative billboard campaign along Johannesburg’s busy N1 highway. The billboards carried a stark message, accusing B-BBEE of having “enriched ANC elites and left the country poor.” This direct criticism marks a significant point of contention within the coalition government.

The opposition party maintains that the B-BBEE framework has failed in its core mission. They argue it has not broadly empowered the South African populace. Instead, the DA claims benefits have been concentrated among a small, politically connected circle.

This, they say, has perpetuated economic inequality rather than alleviating it.

DA Seeks Broad Support for Alternative Bill

Mathew Cuthbert, the DA’s Head of Policy, expressed optimism about engaging other parties. He noted encouraging reports that some ANC members might be open to debating the bill.

“We have not formally approached the ANC but we will be writing to all parties in the GNU as well as in Parliament to get support for our Economic Inclusion for All Bill,” Cuthbert stated.

He framed the issue as a crucial national debate. “I think it’s important… for us to discuss reforming empowerment policy in this country, so that it no longer caters to an elite crew of politically connected individuals but rather there is true economic impact and inclusion through an alternative policy.”

Cuthbert emphasized that the DA’s proposal aims to establish a fairer and more effective system. The goal is to deliver tangible economic benefits to all citizens, moving beyond the current B-BBEE model.

ANC Holds Firm on B-BBEE Foundation

In response, the ANC has reaffirmed its commitment to the B-BBEE policy. While indicating a general willingness for policy discussions, the ruling party has drawn a firm line. It will not support any initiative to repeal what it considers a cornerstone of South Africa’s economic transformation.

The ANC views B-BBEE as an essential tool for redressing historical economic imbalances. It remains a central pillar of the party’s agenda.

This fundamental disagreement over the future of B-BBEE injects fresh tension into the GNU. The public campaign by the DA highlights the deep policy divisions that the coalition must manage. Navigating these rifts will be critical as the government addresses South Africa’s complex economic challenges.

The debate over B-BBEE and its effectiveness continues to be a defining feature of the national political landscape. The DA’s new offensive ensures it will remain at the forefront of economic policy discussions. ...Click to Read More >>➤