Legislative amendments to pave the way for land to be expropriated without compensation remains a priority for government, Deputy President David Mabuza has said while answering questions in the National Assembly.
“We would like to assure this House that the amendment of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa 1996 in order to enable the expropriation of land without compensation remains a commitment and a priority of this administration.”
“Government will not deviate from this policy.”
The Deputy President reiterated that the land reform process will be pursued in a responsible manner that addresses:
– sustained inclusive economic growth
– skewed concentration of ownership by large corporations and
monopolies,
– diversification of the economy
In other words, Mabuza said, “we are pursuing a land reform programme for increased agricultural production, for integrated human settlements in order to address apartheid spatial planning and for use to support manufacturing and other means of production.”
“We’re releasing land for industrial purposes so that those who want to start their firms, should do it. This is a deliberate effort by government to try and stimulate the economy.”
Mabuza added that there were also plans to release state land for housing.
“So, we can eliminate this challenge that is faced by our people every day of travelling long distances to their places of work.”
“It is worth pointing out that the panel of experts on land reform has supported the amendment of the Constitution to set out an unambiguous provision for expropriation of land without compensation.
“The panel also supports the finalisation of the Expropriation Bill to enable land expropriation within a properly guided legislative framework.”
Government will proceed with the development and tabling of the Expropriation Bill currently underway to provide for the expropriation of property for public purpose or in the public process.
“This process will not be affected by the Parliamentary process for the amendment of Section 25 of the Constitution,” the Deputy President said.
