Communications Minister Solly Malatsi defends BEE reform plan as over 19,000 public submissions pour in

CAPE TOWN - Communications Minister Solly Malatsi said they’ve received more than 19000 public submissions on his regulations aimed at easing certain Black Economic Empowerment requirements for multinationals like Starlink.

Malatsi also repeated calls for the need for the policy directive on equity equivalence, instead of companies offering a 30% stake to local investors, a requirement Starlink owner Elon Musk has slammed as being racially bias.

But the African National Congress (ANC) has accused Malatsi of failing to build on the ANC’s transformation agenda from the previous administration in transforming the digital sector.

READ: EFF says won't allow Starlink in SA, calls company a security threat

MPs were debating the department’s R7.8 billion budget tabled by Malatsi on Friday.

Solly Malatsi has for months been trying to convince members of the communications and digital technologies oversight committee on the need for a new policy direction.

He said his regulations on equity equivalence and easing bee regulations have created a lot of interest from the public despite questions around Starlink.

"This provides clarity and certainty while ensuring that global companies meet transformation obligations through a variety of intervention including skills development, SMME support and shared infrastructure investment. We have received more than 19,000 submissions in the public consultation process."

But the ANC’s Shaik Subrathie said his party’s assessment reflects the current administration's “troubling departure” from a pro-poor digital agenda and favouring companies like Starlink.

"The minister’s approach to Starlink reveals the fundamental disregard for the principle of equality before the law."