Calm down on land issue

THE reaction to the expropriation of land without compensation (EWC) confuses me. The analysts and opposition leaders against it seem to be saying that existing legislation provides for EWC. They blame the government for not having utilised these provisions to the maximum. They suggest there is no need to change the constitution as current legislation can be used to achieve the same results.

So the question I ask is, if existing legislation sufficiently covers EWC, as they would have us believe, why this emotional reaction against it? Why oppose parliament’s decision if the framework for EWC is already there?

Logically, opposition parties and those against it, especially those saying existing provisions suffice, should not be concerned about it at all. Why are they worried if the amendment to the constitution makes no difference? Isn’t it business as usual?

I don’t think we should be too concerned about this. We should also not compare it to the Zimbabwean situation, it cannot be the same.

Expropriation cannot be likened to a land grab, and I strongly believe South Africans are more tolerant and disciplined. EWC will certainly be done in a coordinated and well-orchestrated manner, taking into account all the inputs of everyone. The fears of people who have land will certainly be allayed. Land will not be expropriated tomorrow or next week. It’s a long process which must be handled delicately.

The detailed questions asked by opposition leaders such as Mosiuoa Lekota were also premature. No details have been discussed or agreed on, so let’s all relax and support the process and ensure land is addressed amicably and fairly.

We also need to appreciate that the issue has to be confronted head-on at some point. Delaying it was not going to help us. If you want an omelette, you have to break some eggs. Let’s all calm down, engage and contribute ideas to ensure this necessary process goes smoothly for the benefit of all. — Ziphilele Mngcongo, East London