Firearm proposals are irrational
24 May 2021
The Minister of Police’s draft proposals for amending the Firearms Control Act and excluding self-defence as a valid reason for owning a firearm, are irresponsible and irrational, says Uys van der Westhuijzen, chair of Agri SA’s Centre of Excellence: Rural Safety. “Agri SA strongly opposes these amendments.”
Further proposals regarding the validity period of a competency certificate and further limitations on the number of firearms for occasional hunting and sport shoot are equally unacceptable, says Van der Westhuijzen.
Agri SA will provide commentary on the proposed amendments, with inputs from its member organisations and, where necessary, work with other organisations to oppose amendments that are to the detriment of fellow South Africans. “The draft proposals disregard the universal right to self-defence and should therefore be opposed vehemently by all South Africans,” says Van der Westhuijzen.
If the proposal regarding self-defence is accepted, it will have a negative impact, particularly on the farming community because they live in remote areas - far from the nearest police station – and therefore are largely responsible for protecting themselves against criminal elements.