S. African Minister Supports Land Expropriation for Economic Boost

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(SouthAfricaFilms21) -- In order to spur economic development and rejuvenate its run-down urban areas, South Africa requires a robust and equitable land expropriation law, according to the nation’s minister of public works and infrastructure.

Dean Macpherson, a member of the opposition Democratic Alliance—the second-largest party in South Africa’s coalition government—has shed light on the intricate issues involved in the ongoing discussion about land reform in the country. This controversy came under scrutiny after U.S. President Donald Trump suspended assistance and asserted that properties owned by white individuals were being expropriated in South Africa without compensation. It should be noted that not a single piece of land was taken over following the end of apartheid in 1994.

The main reason behind the legislation that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa enacted in December is aimed at providing restitution to Black individuals who were denied their right to own property under White-only rule. This has upset some Afrikaner rights organizations. However, Macpherson, aged 40, contends that a "fair and just" approach is essential for progress.

You cannot develop an economy, which involves enlarging ports, railways, harbors, airports, and power line easements, unless you have the capacity for expropriation," he stated during an interview in Johannesburg. "The genuine issue with expropriation lies in how it has become a tool used by both conservative and progressive factions.

The District Attorney is contesting the law due to its ambiguous phrasing concerning compensation—or the absence thereof—in certain situations. Both this party and President Ramaphosa’s African National Congress lead the governing alliance.

Explore Further the Topic of Land Issues in South Africa:

Why Trump Is Targeting South Africa’s Land Policies: QuickTake

How a Racially Homogeneous Minority Sparked Trump’s Anger Over South Africa

South Africa's DA Announces Conflict Over New Legislation$fdata(Initialized)

Macpherson stated that the government shouldn't have to meet whatever price property owners demand for their land when needed for developmental purposes, as this could result in speculation. He further emphasized that fair compensation should still be provided.

“It’s in the country’s interest for an act that is fair and allows the courts to make a determination on what is just and equitable to be able to move forward,” he said.

South Africa’s coalition government is prioritizing substantial infrastructure investments as a key strategy to boost economic growth. One of the initiatives includes expanding the power transmission network to handle an increasing volume of renewable energy sources.

“We’ve got to find a clear path through because without an efficient and effective act, how do we roll out 14,500 kilometers (9,010 miles) of transmission lines,” Macpherson said.

Expropriation might also be employed to reclaim deserted structures within urban areas such as Johannesburg. These buildings have fallen into disrepair and currently house numerous squatters who reside in hazardous circumstances.

"In cases where these structures are fostering criminal activities or accelerating decline, there could indeed be justification for expropriation," he stated.

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