1 month ago

South Africa's DA Challenges Expropriation Act in Court

South Africa's DA Challenges Expropriation Act in Court
South African coalition party goes to court over law that angered Trump · theprint.in

South Africa has a new law that lets the government take land if it says it’s for the public good, even if the owner isn’t paid.

The Democratic Alliance, a big opposition party, says this law is too vague and could scare away businesses.

The ruling African National Congress says the law is a big step to fix the unfair land ownership that happened during apartheid.

The law was signed by President Cyril Ramaphosa in January 2025.

The DA took the case to court on August 3, 2025, after the U.S. President Donald Trump criticized the law and cut aid to South Africa.

The two parties are still working together in government, even though they disagree on this issue.

The court case shows how the law is still being debated in South Africa.

It also shows how politics and land ownership are closely linked in the country.

The outcome could affect how much foreign investment comes in the future.

Key facts

Country
South Africa
Law
Expropriation Act
Signed by
President Cyril Ramaphosa
Date signed
January 2025
Court challenge filed by
Democratic Alliance
Opposing party
African National Congress

Quotes

South Africa’s Democratic Alliance

Second‑largest party in South Africa’s governing coalition

“The legislation gives the government “vague and sweeping powers” and it will deter investment.”
theprint.in

Sources

Related news