📚AfriForum calls for DA, VF+ to quit GNU if BELA Act proceeds unchanged

AfriForum has called on the Democratic Alliance (DA) and Freedom Front Plus (FF+) to reconsider their participation in the Government of National Unity (GNU) should the Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act proceed unchanged. The civic group argues that the legislation poses a threat to Afrikaans-language schools and has accused elements within the African National Congress (ANC) and the Department of Education of undermining dialogue on the matter.

This marks a first for the organisation, which has until now stayed out of party politics. The effect of the Solidariteit movement, of which AfriForum is a part, taking a stance against parliamentary parties could have a large impact, given the large portion of the Afrikaner population they represent, who are an essential electoral bloc for both the DA and the VF+.

AfriForum contends that the GNU, intended to foster political cooperation, risks becoming a mere tool for implementing ANC-driven policies like the BELA Act, with little input from other parties. The organisation is ramping up its opposition, with over 215,000 people signing a petition against the bill.

https://www.capeindependent.com/article/afriforum-calls-for-da-vf-to-quit-gnu-if-bela-act-proceeds-unchanged

🚢 Russian warship makes waves at South African Naval Festival

🇷🇺🇿🇦The Russian frigate Neustrashimy, part of the Baltic Fleet, participated in South Africa's Navy Festival at the main naval base in Simon's Town.

The warship, accompanied by the replenishment vessel Akademik Pashin, took part in a naval parade on the roadstead and was open to visitors on Saturday, attracting a large crowd.

The frigate's presence attracted a lot of interest from visitors, including a visit from South Africa's navy chief, Vice Admiral Monde Lobese.

📎Russian Embassy in South Africa