Ramaphosa promulgates full implementation of the BELA Act
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the Government of National Unity’s (GNU) clearing house has given him the green light to proceed with the act and not send sections four and five back to Parliament.
President Cyril Ramaphosa promulgated the full implementation of the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act on 20 December 2024. Picture: Supplied
JOHANNESBURG - President Cyril Ramaphosa has promulgated the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act from Friday.
In a statement, the President says he has advised the Basic Education Minister, Siviwe Gwarube, to see the full implementation of the act.
Ramaphosa signed the contentious piece of legislation into law earlier this year.
However, he delayed the implementation of sections four and five of the act, for parties to find a middle ground.
The three-month period granted by the President expired on 13 December 2024.
Ramaphosa says the Government of National Unity’s (GNU) clearing house has given him the green light to proceed with the act and not send sections four and five back to Parliament.
The President stresses that the act will apply to all children despite their language.
The President adds that the decision is anchored in Chapter 2 of the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, which guarantees everyone's right to equality.
Ramaphosa says all bodies and structures responsible for the implementation of the act are required to abide by the Constitution at all times.