Press Release by Free SA
Immediate Release
11 February 2025
As South Africa once again finds itself entangled in the fallout of global political disputes—this time amid tensions involving US President Donald Trump, the ANC-led government, and lobby groups, the Foundation for Rights of Expression and Equality (Free SA) is urging the Government of National Unity (GNU) to abandon its failing economic ideology in favour of policies that will unlock sustainable growth and create real opportunities for all South Africans. This includes repealing the Expropriation Act.
While politicians and lobbyists exchange rhetoric, ordinary South Africans are left bearing the brunt of these conflicts, suffering under the weight of the ANC’s failed economic policies. The recent imposition of US tariffs on steel and aluminium, along with the withdrawal of aid, further exacerbates an already dire economic situation.
However, blaming external forces for South Africa’s woes misses the point. The country’s vulnerability to global economic shifts is not an unfortunate accident—it is the direct result of self-inflicted wounds: an over-regulated economy, rigid labour laws, race-based interventions, and ongoing threats to property rights. These policies have stifled investment, strangled economic growth, and deepened unemployment. The message from international markets is clear—South Africa cannot afford to stay on this path.
“South Africa’s economic crisis is not the result of foreign policy disputes—it is the result of years of bad governance and misguided economic ideology. If we want to protect our sovereignty and prosperity, we must stop looking for scapegoats and start implementing real reforms. The GNU has a choice: cling to outdated policies and watch the economy deteriorate further, or embrace practical solutions that will unlock growth and opportunity for all South Africans.” Says Reuben Coetzer, spokesperson at Free SA.
A Call for Urgent, Practical Reform
Free SA urges the GNU to abandon its failed economic ideology and instead pursue policies that will unlock sustainable growth and create real opportunities for all South Africans. A resilient economy is the best defence against external economic pressure, political opportunism, and the decline of national sovereignty. To that end, we call on the government to take three immediate and decisive steps:
1. End the State’s Monopoly on Ports and Railways
South Africa’s logistics crisis—exacerbated by dysfunctional, state-run ports and rail networks—has crippled critical industries such as mining and agriculture. Private sector investment and management of our railways and ports would restore efficiency, lower costs, and enhance competitiveness in global markets.
2. Modernise Labour Laws to Encourage Job Creation
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the engines of job creation, yet they remain shackled by archaic and overly restrictive labour regulations. Simplifying these laws and cutting red tape would remove barriers to entrepreneurship, making it easier to start and grow businesses.
3. Unlock Government-Owned Land for Private Development
The state controls vast tracts of unused land—land that could be transformed into low-cost housing and commercial development to empower ordinary South Africans. Instead of pursuing expropriation without compensation, the government should prioritise secure property rights, enabling wealth creation through land ownership.
South Africans deserve a government that prioritises economic freedom over ideological posturing. The ANC’s and GNU’s current policies are not only damaging relationships with international partners but are entrenching poverty and stalling progress. Free SA envisions a South Africa where government acts as a facilitator of growth, not a barrier to prosperity.
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Media enquiries:
Anneke Burns
Free SA Publicist
071 423 0079
media@freesa.org.za
About FREE SA:
At the Foundation for Rights of Expression and Equality (Free SA) we are committed to empowering South Africans to have their voices heard. In a true democracy, every opinion counts, and we ensure your voice resonates where it matters most: in Parliament, in public policy, and in the laws that shape our country. From advocating for democracy and equality to holding the government to account, we stand with you to demand transparent, responsive, and fair governance that serves its people.
To learn more, visit: https://www.freesa.org.za/