Concern over new political donation limits

More influence could be exerted by private entities or individuals, warn analysts

- MANYANE MANYANE

POLITICAL analysts and a civil society group have raised concern about the new limit and threshold for donations to political parties, saying this could see more influence exerted on government institutions and politicians.

This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa signed a proclamation to double the threshold and annual donation limit in the Political Funding Act (PFA).

The annual donation threshold to political parties by an individual donor has increased from R15 million to R30m.

He has also allowed for donations to political parties below R200 000 to remain undisclosed (the identity of the donor does not have to be made public), up from a limit of R100 000.

These amounts were set in a government gazette dated August 6. Ramaphosa said he made these decisions in terms of the PFA and was also acting on a resolution adopted by the National Assembly on May 20.

Political analyst Zakhele Ndlovu said although money is necessary in politics, higher limits opened up the process to the threat of capture of policy, law, political parties and politicians, as well as government institutions.