EXPROPRIATION WILL RAISE INFLATION

THE phrase “expropriation without compensation” by the ANC sent shock waves through the world, despite President Cyril Ramphosa’s statement that “the land reform programme should not undermine future investment in the economy or damage agricultural production and food security”.

After the leaking of an alleged list of farms to be expropriated without compensation, there was a sudden increase of for sale signs on farms.

Rightfully so. Who in their right mind would hold on to a farm that might be confiscated by the government when the thorny legislation is implemented?

Experienced farmers will drop their farms in their droves. This will surely affect food security and could result in a massive reduction in food production on these farms. More food will have to be imported, resulting in further increases in food prices. Hence agricultural production and food security could be affected.

Current by-laws already grant municipalities the right to take ownership of derelict buildings and abandoned inner-city buildings as recently witnessed in Johannesburg. This proves that the proposed legislation for expropriation without compensation is not required by municipalities to take ownership of these types of properties.

The government’s proposed legislation will open a can of worms that will be detrimental to all, and worst for the poor. It was reported last week that food inflation is set to spike in the next year.

Who is the ANC government trying to fool? Have they not done enough damage to our country with massive looting of state coffers? Adiel Ismail | Mount View