South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to sign the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Bill into law on Friday despite objections from his coalition partners, the Democratic Alliance (DA). The DA claims the bill threatens the stability of the Government of National Unity (GNU), arguing that it violates the constitutional right to mother-tongue education.
President Cyril Ramaphosa cannot refuse to sign the Basic Education Law s Amendment Bill for political reasons, says the presidency.President Cyril Ramaphosa cannot refuse to sign the Basic Education Law s Amendment Bill for political reasons, says the presidency.
The DA warned on Wednesday that if the signing proceeds despite their objections this would violate both the letter and spirit of the joint Statement of Intent, that forms the basis of the GNU. “Despite this, and in violation of the provisions of the Statement of Intent, the president seems intent on pushing ahead unilaterally. I have moved urgently to meet the president before Friday to reiterate our objections in the strongest terms.
“A dispute resolution mechanism will be established, when there are concerns about a bill. It can be taken to court for clarification and parties who are represented in Parliament can pursue amendments to that bill. There is absolutely no need to make threats and the president is also not surprised that there is a dispute but he expects maturity and ongoing commitment to the country and to engage without threats,” said Magwenya.
“The president remains firmly committed to engaging fully and openly with parties in the Government of National Unity on this or any other matter of concern,” Magwenya added.
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