Ramaphosa calls for unity, discourages approaching foreign govts to air grievances
On Thursday, the president responded to the debate into his State of the Nation Address (SONA) speech, where he again reminded parties of the need for transformation.
President Cyril Ramaphosa replied to the debate on his State of the Nation Address. The reply follows a two-day debate on the address by Members of Parliament and takes place during the joint sitting of the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces. Picture: Phando Jikelo / RSA Parliament.
CAPE TOWN - President Cyril Rampahosa has called for greater unity, saying this was not the time for people to approach foreign governments to air their grievances.
On Thursday, the president responded to the debate on his State of the Nation Address (SONA) speech, where he again reminded parties of the need for transformation.
Ramaphosa again allayed fears about the Expropriation Act, saying that no land or property would be expropriated without due process in a just and equitable manner.
Ramaphosa told the joint sitting that the country was facing a "harsh global wind", with questions over the country’s new Expropriation Act.
He also addressed those opposed to the act, like AfriForum, who are accused of feeding the United States (US) government misinformation about the law. He said this was the time to stand united as a country.
"This is not the time for any of us to rush off to foreign lands to lay complaints about issues that we ourselves can solve here in this country."
Ramaphosa again said the country won’t be bullied domestically or internationally.
"And I would like to repeat, we will also not be bullied by anyone in the country or outside for our intent to work together."
Ramaphosa said they remain committed to programmes that drive transformation "whether people like it or not".
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