Phumzile Van Damme Slams Da's Conduct In Gnu: 'have Some Shame'

Former Democratic Alliance DA member of Parliament MP Phumzile Van Damme has criticised the partys attempt to overturn a law that was duly passed.

The DA has reacted strongly to President Cyril Ramaphosas signing of the Expropriation Bill into law last week, accusing him of ignoring concerns of government of national unity GNU parties.

In a media briefing on Saturday, DA leader John Steenhuisen revealed that prior to the signing, he and Dean Macpherson had written to Ramaphosa asking him to send the Bill back to Parliament.

In a post on X , Macpherson also declared, As the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure, there will be NO expropriation of private property without compensation on my watch. The guarantee of property rights under Section 25 of the Constitution is not up for debate and is non-negotiable.

Many interpreted this as a refusal to implement the law. On Sunday, Van Damme joined criticism of the party she once served as spokesperson and chief whip.

The DA's conduct regarding the BELA Bill and now the Expropriation Act is utterly disgraceful. What is wrong with you? Have you completely lost sight of the purpose and sanctity of the rule of law? Have you completely lost sight of the principles of democracy intent on getting your way no matter the cost? she wrote on X.

This marks a new low and, frankly, is profoundly disappointing. While one may criticise the DA, as I have, no one could credibly argue that it is a party that disregards the rule of law - a principle it has long championed. But now? What on earth is going on? Get a grip.

You lost the fight in Parliament. It is entirely unacceptable to exploit your position in Cabinet to undermine the role of Parliament and attempt to overturn a law that was duly passed.

Van Damme said the proper, lawful recourse for the DA is to seek judicial review of the new law, adding that the party should not to expect the President or the Executive to act against the will of Parliament.

A Minister refusing to implement a law passed by Parliament is nothing short of constitutional delinquency. This behaviour is reckless, demagogic, and an affront to the principles of democracy, she added.