B-BBEE 'should not be scrapped'

LEGISLATION: EXPERTS WEIGH IN ON WHAT MUST CHANGE

- Itumeleng Mafisa

Despite concerns about the broad-based black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) policies in South Africa, some economists and political analysts believe this policy can still benefit many black people.

On Monday, DA leader John Steenhuisen said his party is declaring war on the B-BBEE system. Other political parties, such as the Freedom Front Plus (FF+), have criticised the policy, describing it as dysfunctional and only benefiting a few politically connected people.

They also claim it has not helped create work opportunities for the majority of previously disadvantaged people.

However, Sanet Solomon, a political analyst from Free State University, believes this policy can still work if implemented properly.

"It is important to note that B-BBEE is not a form of affirmative action favouring a singular group, but rather legislation aimed at helping marginalised groups enter sectors in which they are underrepresented," she said.

The problem, she said, is that the B-BBEE policy has been manipulated by some individuals.