Democratic Alliance leader John Steenhuisen has expressed his strong opposition to President Cyril Ramaphosa’s decision to sign the Expropriation Bill into law. He believes that this move by the president threatens the stability of the governing coalition and disrespects its coalition partners.
Steenhuisen highlighted that the relationship between the ANC and the DA is crucial for the stability of the 10-party coalition government. However, he criticized Ramaphosa for failing to engage with him on important matters such as the National Health Insurance Act and for not informing Public Works Minister Dean Macpherson, a DA representative in the cabinet, about the signing of the Expropriation Bill.
The DA leader accused the ANC of openly disrespecting its coalition partners and undermining the trust necessary for a successful coalition government. He pointed out that recent statements by Ramaphosa, claiming that the ANC is “still in charge” despite not having a majority in the national elections, further strained the relationship between the two parties.
Steenhuisen invoked a section of the agreement between the ANC and the DA, which states that decisions should be taken by consensus among parties representing 60% of seats in the National Assembly. He emphasized that the ANC and the DA are the only parties in the coalition that meet this requirement.
In a bold move, Steenhuisen warned that if the dispute over the Expropriation Bill cannot be resolved, the DA would reconsider its position in the coalition. This statement indicates a significant shift in the DA’s stance towards the governing partnership.
The Expropriation Bill allows for land to be expropriated without compensation under certain conditions. Despite previous disagreements between the DA and the ANC over other legislation, Steenhuisen highlighted the gravity of the current situation and the need for a resolution.
Overall, Steenhuisen’s firm stance on the Expropriation Bill and his warning to reconsider the DA’s role in the coalition government signal a potential turning point in South African politics. The future of the coalition hangs in the balance as parties grapple with differing views on crucial policy decisions. The sun was shining brightly as people gathered at the park for a day of fun and relaxation. Children were running around, playing on the playground equipment, while adults lounged on blankets, sipping on cool drinks and enjoying the warm weather. It was the perfect day for a picnic and everyone was in high spirits.
As the day wore on, the park began to fill up with more and more people. Families arrived with picnic baskets and coolers filled with sandwiches, fruit, and snacks. The smell of grilled burgers and hot dogs wafted through the air as people fired up their portable grills and began cooking up a feast.
The sound of laughter and chatter filled the park as friends and families caught up with each other, sharing stories and enjoying each other’s company. Some people played frisbee or tossed a football around, while others simply relaxed and soaked up the sun.
As the afternoon turned into evening, the park took on a magical quality as the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over everything. The sky turned shades of pink and orange as the sun dipped below the horizon, creating a stunning backdrop for the festivities.
As darkness fell, people lit candles and lanterns, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Music played softly in the background as people danced and sang around the flickering lights, creating a sense of joy and community.
As the night wore on, the park slowly emptied out as families packed up their belongings and headed home. The sounds of laughter and chatter faded away, leaving behind a peaceful and quiet park, bathed in the soft glow of the moon and stars.
Overall, it was a perfect day at the park filled with laughter, good food, and the company of loved ones. It was a day that would be remembered fondly by all who attended, a day of simple pleasures and lasting memories.
