DA Criticises Ramaphosa for Praising Zimbabwe’s Land Reform

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has sharply criticised President Cyril Ramaphosa for commending Zimbabwe’s land reform programme during his recent visit to Harare.

Ramaphosa attended the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show as a guest of honour, praising Zimbabwe for revitalising its agricultural sector. He highlighted efforts such as policy reforms, investment in irrigation, mechanisation, and support for both large- and small-scale farmers.

“Most commercially productive land and large-scale farms were owned by whites, while the black majority was confined to communal lands. It was essential for historical redress, food security, development, and economic growth that the government enabled black Zimbabweans to enter productive agriculture,” Ramaphosa said.

DA Reaction

The DA’s national spokesperson, Willie Aucamp, condemned Ramaphosa’s remarks. He said the president “wrongfully praised” a programme that devastated Zimbabwe’s economy, destroyed foreign relations, and created famine.

Aucamp also noted that Zimbabwe faced financial reparations to former landowners due to the government’s failure to legally transfer land.

Implications for South Africa

The DA warned that Ramaphosa’s praise could be interpreted as support for South Africa’s Expropriation Without Compensation (EWC) policy under the 2025 Expropriation Act.

“While acknowledging the need for land reform in South Africa, it must remain within the Constitution and rule of law. Expropriation Without Compensation does not meet this standard,” Aucamp said.

He emphasised that South Africa’s government does not endorse Zimbabwe’s land confiscation model and cautioned against adopting policies that could harm the economy.

{Source: TheSouthAfrican}

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