Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has stressed the importance of clearing up any misconceptions surrounding the Expropriation Act, to ensure investors of policy certainty.

He called for reasoned discussion and for the Government of National Unity to explain the facts surrounding the legislation to the US administration.

Macpherson was speaking to members of the investment community on the margins of the Investing in African Mining Indaba opening reception, in Cape Town, on February 3.

Macpherson averred that there had been misconceptions about the legislation, including recent comments made on social media by US President Donald Trump.

“I want to be unequivocal: No one in South Africa is having their land confiscated,” Macpherson emphasised.

He pointed out that the Expropriation Act sets out a clear legal framework under which expropriation may take place – always with due process and court oversight.

Furthermore, Section 25 of the Constitution remains firmly in place, “enshrining property rights in the highest law of the country”, he pointed out.

Macpherson also cautioned against brinkmanship.

He further noted that the government was committed to working with international partners to ensure investor confidence remained strong.

“As the Minister responsible for this Bill, I am also committed to ensuring that it is constitutional and that there will be no arbitrary land grabs by the State in South Africa. Property rights are not only about protecting investments but also about ensuring that the rule of law is upheld in all sectors of society,” he assured.