EFF and AfriForum set for high-stakes legal battle over Expropriation Act

The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have reaffirmed their commitment to fighting for the expropriation of land without compensation as a high-profile legal battle begins in the Western Cape High Court.

Lawyers for the party joined proceedings on Monday to challenge an application brought by AfriForum. The civil rights group is arguing against the Expropriation Act and the concept of state custodianship of private land.

The proceedings scheduled for this week are procedural but critical. The court will determine the specific roles various organisations will play in the matter, whether they will be admitted as applicants, respondents, or amici curiae (friends of the court).

AfriForum has described the case as one of the most significant in a decade, noting that the final ruling could fundamentally reshape the future of private property rights in South Africa.

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AfriForum’s spokesperson, Ernst van Zyl, maintains that private property rights are currently "under attack on all fronts."

"AfriForum stands firm against these agents of chaos," Van Zyl stated.

The EFF, which has entered the matter as an intervening party, intends to use its legal team to vigorously oppose AfriForum’s application.

EFF spokesperson Thembi Msane voiced the party’s unwavering stance on the issue.

"We want to assure the people of South Africa that we want expropriation of land without compensation, and we are not ashamed of that," said Msane.

While this week focuses on the participation of various interest groups, the core arguments of the case are not yet being heard.

The main part of the matter is scheduled to proceed in August.