The Democratic Alliance (DA) has issued a stern warning to President Ramaphosa, urging him not to sign the Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill into law on Friday.
Despite strong objections from the DA, it seems the President is determined to push ahead with the bill, potentially violating the Government of National Unity’s joint Statement of Intent.
DA leader, John Steenhuisen, has emphasized that the BELA Bill, in its current form, has constitutional implications for the right to mother-tongue education.
The DA has urged President Ramaphosa to send the Bill back to Parliament for amendments to align it with the Constitution.
However, it appears that the President is intent on moving forward unilaterally, disregarding the concerns of the opposition party.
Steenhuisen has urgently requested a meeting with President Ramaphosa to reiterate DA’s objections and present simple amendments required to bring the bill in line with the Constitution.
He has warned that failure to address these concerns could endanger the future of the Government of National Unity and erode the trust upon which it was established.
The DA leader has called for the establishment of a dispute resolution mechanism to ensure all parties uphold the letter and spirit of the Statement of Intent.
He believes the ANC must understand that they cannot take unilateral action on issues that affect fundamental rights without consultation with the opposition.
Steenhuisen has emphasised the seriousness of this issue and its potential destructive implications for the future of the Government of National Unity.
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