'da's Hatred For Transformation Has Become Shameless,' Anc Claims

The African National Congress ANC has accused the Democratic Alliance DA of having hatred for transformation that has become shameless.

At a media briefing on Wednesday 30 April, ANC Secretary-General Fikile Mbalula slammed the DA for challenging Section 15A of the Employment Equity Amendment Act at the Pretoria high court.

The DA claims the section introduces rigid national race quotas in the workplace.

These quotas will destroy jobs, undermine the economy and violate the constitutional rights of all South Africans, its member of Parliament Michael Bagrain said on Tuesday.

Where companies once set their own equity goals based on context and the available labour force, they are now compelled to meet government-imposed demographic targets, regardless of skills, local realities, or business viability.

Bagraim added that the case is not about resisting redress, but protecting people's rights under the Constitution, the rule of law and the livelihoods of South Africans.

The DA believes that real redress does not mean implementing policies that bring more division. We believe that true transformation can only be achieved by focusing on inclusive economic growth that creates opportunity for all, he added.

However, Mbalula said the Employment Equity Act is a constitutional imperative, not an attack on anyone.

Its recent amendments, achieved through NEDLAC consensus, ensure sectoral targets that reflect regional realities, support SMMEs and hold employers accountable in state contracts. These reforms are modest, rational and necessary, he added.

He linked the DAs case to its opposition to other policies such as National Health Insurance, Expropriation Act and Basic Education Laws Amendment Act.