The Democratic Alliance (DA) is intensifying its push to scrap Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE), calling on political parties within and outside the Government of National Unity (GNU) to support its Public Procurement Amendment Bill.
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On Tuesday, the DA launched a bold billboard campaign along Johannesburg’s N1 highway, declaring that B-BBEE has “enriched ANC elites and left the country poor.” Despite sharing power with the African National Congress (ANC) in the GNU, the DA took aim at its coalition partner’s cornerstone economic policy.
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The opposition party argues that B-BBEE has failed to empower the majority of South Africans, instead benefitting a small circle of politically connected individuals. According to the DA, the policy has entrenched inequality rather than dismantling it.
DA Calls for Inclusive Economic Reform
Mathew Cuthbert, the DA’s Head of Policy, said he was encouraged by reports suggesting that some ANC members are open to debating the Bill.
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“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 because I think it’s important as the crucible of national debates 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 explained.
He emphasised that the DA’s proposal seeks to create a fairer, more inclusive system that delivers tangible benefits to all South Africans, not just the politically well-connected.
ANC Remains Firm on B-BBEE Policy
While the ANC has signalled a willingness to engage in broader policy discussions, it remains steadfast in defending B-BBEE. The ruling party has repeatedly stated that it will not support any moves to repeal the empowerment framework, which it considers central to South Africa’s transformation agenda.
The DA’s latest move adds fresh tension to the GNU, highlighting the growing policy rifts between the coalition partners as they navigate South Africa’s economic and political challenges.
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