President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the signing of the BELA Bill (Basic Education Laws Amendment Bill) on Friday. This will be the first big step for the National Coalition Government. This will be a challenging decision for the DA whether to remain in coalition or not. And for the ANC it poses to be a risk.
The BELA Bill
The BELA Bill aims to reinforce the education sector of South Africa. And the president will be publicly signing the bill during the ceremony at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
There are certain amendments the BELLA Bill will be making to the South African Schools Act 1996 (SASA) and the Employment of Educators Act, 1998 (EEA). It will lead to developments in the education sphere and enact the original legislation.
These amendments taking place are a result of the South African court judgements which gives the Bill effect to its rights. However, this Bill is being opposed by the DA immediately. Certain party spokesperson were of the view that, the Bill coming to effect is the President was “putting a knife to the throat of the GNU” through this action.
During the last singing ceremony President Ramaposha held certain views. That is, when he signed the NHI Bill into law; it is aimed at the ANC voters. According to him “the GNU” “must be protected at all costs”. And since the coalition government was formed this has been the line between the DA and the ANC.
It is yet not certain what will happen, if the DA will pull out or not. However, to pass any laws, the ANC will need support from the existing parties in opposition.
Conclusion
Signing this Bill will mark a crucial moment in South African educational reforms. It will also change the course of the coalition government. However, the DA continues to face challenges while they try to retain support to pass further legislation.
Key Points
- President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the BELA Bill, marking a significant step for the National Coalition Government.
- The DA is opposing the BELA Bill, with party members criticizing the president for pressuring the coalition government.
- The BELA Bill amends the South African Schools Act and the Employment of Educators Act to strengthen the education sector.