EFF statement on the draft resolution by the CIC to combat extortion an protect small business
6 September 2024
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) stands firm in our commitment to protect the people of South Africa from the scourge of crime and criminal extortion that is suffocating small businesses and destabilising communities. The Commander-in-Chief (CIC) Julius Malema tabled a crucial draft resolution to Parliament that was presented by EFF Member of Parliament (MP) Dr. Mbuyiseni Ndlozi earlier today.
The draft resolution to the National Assembly aims to bring together, through an Ad Hoc Committee, various departments and stakeholders to combat the insidious rise of extortion rackets targeting small and informal businesses across the country.
The resolution acknowledges the pervasive crime problem that affects every corner of our society. South Africa is under siege from criminals who have not only targeted individuals and households but are now preying on vulnerable small businesses. These criminals have developed sophisticated networks, extorting small business owners in townships, peri-urban areas, and even schools. This form of extortion, referred to as a "protection fee," demands a percentage of business income in exchange for safety, threatening lives and livelihoods.
We have witnessed the devastating effects of this crime in the Western Cape, where extortion rackets have led to the closure of businesses, such as Beerhouse, and the loss of lives in townships. This criminal phenomenon is spreading rapidly to other provinces, including the Eastern Cape, where schools are being forced to close because criminals are now extorting teachers. In the construction industry alone, it has cost the industry over R40 billion. If this vile crime is allowed to continue unabated, South Africans will no longer be able to do business freely or live without fear of criminal persecution.
Our Draft Resolution, therefore, calls for the establishment of an Ad Hoc Committee to investigate the full extent of extortion in South Africa, with a particular focus on the Westem Cape, Eastem Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. This committee will conduct public hearings, gather the views of small business owners, civil society, and experts, and propose comprehensive policy and legislative interventions to eradicate this crime.
Parliament must play its role in ensuring govemment accountability and oversight in the fight against extortion.
Yet, despite the urgency of the situation, both the ANC and DA in their debates opposed this critical resolution. The ANC even went on to state that the current processes are already enough, which involves the individual portfolio committees, even though this has not been enough to curb the rise of extortion rackets. Their debates during the mini plenary made it clear that they believe there is no need for parliamentary action, confirming our long-held suspicions that these parties are not serious about addressing the rampant crime destroying our country.
The DA, which oversees one of the most dangerous provinces, has shown complete disregard for the businesses and lives at risk. Their opposition to this resolution speaks volumes about their lack of commitment to protecting the people of South Africa, as they consider issues brought forward by the opposition as threats to the executive rather than important motions for the people.
The EFF firmly insist that a multidisciplinary approach is essential in addressing the issue of crime and protection rackets. Relying solely on individual portfolio committees has proven disastrous. It is our parliamentary duty to end the terrorism of extortionist that our people are confronted with daily.
The Draft Resolution will be further processed in an ordinary plenary sitting, where Members of Parliament will vote on whether it should be adopted. We, therefore, call on all South Africans to send communication to the political parties they voted for to prioritise their safety by adopting the Draft Resolution.
Issued by Leigh-Ann Mathys, National Spokesperson, 9 September 2024
