Overwhelming support against Bela Act continues growing: AfriForum petition now exceeds 200 000 mark

20 September 2024 

AfriForum’s petition (www.stopbela.co.za) against the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act 32 of 2024 continues growing. A day after the 150 000 mark was passed, the number of signatories have increased to more than 200 000. This is clear evidence of the public’s strong opposition to this Act with its various ill-considered and perilous provisions.

According to Alana Bailey, AfriForum’s Head of Cultural Affairs, it is clear that the public is seriously concerned about the Act’s attack on Afrikaans schools and children. They also realise that its implementation will pose a serious threat to the future of quality education and mother-language tuition in general in the country.

After AfriForum and Solidarity had been in talks with President Cyril Ramaphosa, a tactical breakthrough had already been achieved when Ramaphosa announced during the signing of the Act on 13 September 2024 that the contentious articles 4 and 5 of it, which concern schools’ admission and language policies, will not be implemented immediately, but will be open for discussion for a further three months. AfriForum emphasises that this success is proof that public pressure can succeed.

“Poor quality education is the fastest way to economic disaster and our children already face too many challenges in this regard. Bela’s provisions will worsen the situation, rather than improve it. AfriForum therefore once again appeals to anyone who has not supported the petition yet, to sign it. The negative consequences that the Act may have, will not only affect parents and teachers, but all residents of the country. Each signatory therefore helps AfriForum to achieve an even stronger negotiating position. The petition is available at www.stopbela.co.za.”  

Issued by Alana Bailey, Head: Cultural Affairs, AfriForum, 20 September 2024