Mashatile defends B-BBEE, calls it the backbone of national transformation

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has reaffirmed the government's steadfast commitment to Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE), asserting that moving away from the policy would be equivalent to abandoning the country's transformation goals.

Responding to questions in the National Assembly regarding the often-contentious African National Congress (ANC) policy, Mashatile emphasised that B-BBEE remains imperative for South Africa’s economic evolution.

The Deputy President's comments come amid ongoing debates regarding the efficacy and future of empowerment legislation.

The Democratic Alliance (DA) questioned Mashatile on the government's progress regarding a pledged two-phase review of the B-BBEE framework. This review is intended to refine the empowerment model to achieve more effective and widespread transformation.

Despite the pressure for reform or replacement of the policy, Mashatile remained resolute in his address to members of Parliament. He clarified that while reviews may take place, the fundamental existence of the policy is not up for debate.

"Let me reiterate this point without any fear of contradiction. Abandoning B-BBEE is not an option. Abandoning B-BBEE would, in truth, be abandoning transformation. We are going to proceed to implement it."