The South African government has hit back at the Democratic Alliance’s (DA) campaign against BEE, calling the policy a cornerstone of the nation’s economic transformation.
The government described Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) as a critical instrument to correct the injustices of apartheid and ensure inclusive economic growth.
The statement followed the DA’s launch of its campaign for a new approach through its proposed Economic Inclusion for All Bill.
GOVERNMENT DEFENDS BEE POLICY AS A TOOL FOR TRANSFORMATION
The government, led by former President Thabo Mbeki, in 2003 introduced BEE.
The policy aimed to redress historical inequalities by empowering previously disadvantaged individuals, including women, youth, and persons with disabilities.
According to the government, the term black is used broadly, referring to black Africans, coloureds, and Indians.
It added that BEE is a long-term strategy to broaden economic participation and build a fairer, more inclusive economy.
The government emphasised that the policy was developed through a democratic process and urged those seeking changes to follow due procedure.
The government’s Acting spokesperson, Sandile Nene, said parties in the Government of National Unity have a responsibility to support policies that advance economic transformation and sustainable development.
He further stated that BEE is not prejudicial but rather constitutional and morally grounded in equality, fairness, and redress for past injustices.
DA AGAINST BEE: A CALL FOR A NEW ECONOMIC PATH
The DA has criticised BEE as a failed policy. Party leader John Steenhuisen argued that it enriched ANC elites while leaving ordinary South Africans behind.
He said the policy had widened the gap between rich and poor, failing to create meaningful opportunities for the millions still unemployed.
Internationally, BEE has also faced scrutiny, with US President Donald Trump expressing his disapproval of South Africa’s race-based laws.
Meanwhile, the International Monetary Fund urged the country to move away from such policies to attract investment.
These concerns, the DA argues, highlight how race-based economic laws have impacted both investor confidence and everyday South Africans.
ECONOMIC INCLUSION FOR ALL BILL OFFERS AN ALTERNATIVE
The DA says its proposed Economic Inclusion for All Bill seeks to replace BEE with a model that creates jobs and fights poverty for everyone, regardless of race.
“We must replace the African National Congress’s race-based system with one that truly includes everyone,” the party said.
It added that the new bill would “reward job creation, skills development, and real community investment instead of political connections.”
THE DEBATE OVER ECONOMIC EQUITY CONTINUES
As the government defends BEE, the DA continues to push for an alternative vision of inclusion and opportunity.
The debate reflects South Africa’s ongoing struggle to balance redress and growth, which is a conversation central to the nation’s economic future.
