The implementation of the Expropriation Act is a watershed moment for South Africa. TLU SA recognises the enormous impact this law will have on the economy, investor confidence, and the country’s future. If enforced, it will severely undermine any attempt at economic growth and prosperity. South Africa needs stability and policies that encourage investment—not a government and a president who prioritise their own future over that of the country.
It is clear that this decision originates from the 2017 ANC conference, where the internal power struggle between Ace Magashule’s faction, which aggressively pushed for expropriation without compensation, and Ramaphosa’s faction, which only agreed to it provided the economy was not harmed, shaped the policy direction. However, this condition has since quietly disappeared, and the ANC is now forging ahead with a policy that jeopardises the economic future of young South Africans.
TLU SA therefore makes a serious appeal to President Ramaphosa: Now is the time to demonstrate true statesmanship. If he genuinely places South Africa’s interests above his own position in the ANC, he must withdraw this law for review. The core issue is not the principle of an expropriation law itself—where market value is paid for public infrastructure development, it is acceptable. But the vague definition of “public interest” and the evidence that 90% of previously transferred land is no longer productive are clear warnings of the irresponsible manner in which this policy could be implemented. The consequences for food security and economic stability are severe.
South Africa cannot achieve economic growth while investor confidence is being systematically destroyed. The ANC has, over decades, positioned itself as a party pursuing a socialist, centralised economic model—despite the global failure of this system. The most successful economies are those that protect private property rights and allow a free-market system where entrepreneurs can create wealth. This is the hard reality.
Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump has taken a clear stance against South Africa. This is not due to statements by individuals like Elon Musk or organisations like AfriForum but because of the ANC’s own policy direction, which undermines investment security. The government is not putting the country first but rather prioritising its own power. International decisions—such as the US’s choice to withdraw financial support for South Africa if this law is enacted—should serve as a serious warning. Countries that position themselves in this way cannot expect continued support from the international community.
President Ramaphosa, you have a golden opportunity during the State of the Nation Address (SONA) to demonstrate your statesmanship in the best interest of South Africa by announcing that the Expropriation Act, in its current form, will not proceed. If this opportunity passes without decisive action, it will be clear that political considerations have been placed above South Africa’s well-being.
President Ramaphosa, the time for decision-making is now. Will you put South Africa’s interests first, or will you proceed with a policy that will destroy the country’s economic future? The choice is yours.
