Robust debate at land expropriation hearings

The hearings provide an opportunity for members of the community to express their views on the possible amendment of Section 25 of the Constitution.

 

During his State of the Nation Address, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that government will undertake a process of consultation to determine the implementation of land expropriation without compensation.

 

Congress of the People (COPE) leader, Mosiuoa Lekota, says he is attending the hearings to listen to the concerns raised by people. 

 

Lekota says he still believes the land belongs to all South Africans.

 

“You can’t just come here and say you are going to take people's properties. You will have to kill many of them.” 

 

Lekota says anyone in the country has a right to own property wherever they want.

 

Listen below:

The Democratic Alliance (DA) leader in Limpopo, Jacques Smalle, says the hearings could continue into the early hours of Thursday morning as many people have not yet had an opportunity to speak.

 

He adds the chairperson of the Committee for Constitution Review, Vincent Smith, is struggling at times to maintain order at the venue.

 

“Currently we had around 40 to 50 speakers that have expressed themselves, and I would say 60% plus of the individuals that had a chance to address the committee felt in favour of the change of the constitution,” says Smalle.

 

Smalle says the DA brought 500 to 600 of its members to the hearing.

 

“For them to be able to address their concerns and to also express their opinion on probably the most important public hearings in the history of the country.”

 

Listen below: