While the bill has drawn strong opposition, particularly from some governments, national unity partners and international stakeholders, the Free State Community Safety and Roads MEC, Jabu Mbalula, insisted the policy was being misrepresented.

Mbalula argued critics are portraying the law as a license for land grabs, creating the false impression of unlawful and chaotic expropriation, but the government’s approach follows strict legal guidelines and is not reckless. The bill is a “necessary step” for South Africa’s land reform and long-term development, he said.

The government must assert control over land and resources to govern effectively and clarify any expropriation that would take place within the law’s framework, dismissing fears of an uncontrolled land seizure.

Pres. Cyril Ramaphosa, who has faced both domestic and international criticism for signing the bill into law, has steadfastly defended the policy. Addressing the issue during his state of the nation address (Sona), Ramaphosa made it clear that South Africa would not be intimidated by external threats.

Opposition to the policy is strong

He responded to US Pres. Donald Trump’s warning of potential sanctions or funding cuts, saying South Africa would not be deterred. In his Sona speech on Thursday (6/2), Ramaphosa declared: “We, as South Africans, are a resilient people, and we will not be bullied. We will stand united and speak with one voice in defence of our national interests, our sovereignty, and our constitutional democracy.”

While the ANC and Ramaphosa remained resolute in their support of the Bill, opposition to the policy is strong, particularly from the DA. During a visit to the Free State, party leader and Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, warned of the potential economic fallout, especially regarding U.S.-South Africa trade relations.

Steenhuisen emphasised the US is a crucial trading partner, with over $21.1 billion in trade between the two nations last year, a large portion tied to agriculture. He cautioned that the Expropriation Bill could jeopardise this relationship, posing risks to agriculture, manufacturing, and employment.

“America is an important partner. If they cut funding or impose sanctions, it could devastate our agricultural sector and manufacturing jobs,” Steenhuisen said, calling for diplomatic efforts to mend relations in the wake of the controversial law.

Legal battle

On Monday (10/2), DA Federal Council Chairperson Helen Zille announced the party had filed legal papers in the Western Cape High Court, challenging the constitutionality of the Expropriation Act. Zille argued the law was unconstitutional “both substantively and procedurally”.

The legal battle is expected to intensify as both sides remain firm in their positions.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg