MALATSI DEFENDS B-BBEE POLICY CHANGES

Critics voice concerns about the implications for transformation and equity

- MAYIBONGWE MAQHINA

COMMUNICATIONS and Digital Technologies Minister Solly Malatsi faced fierce criticism yesterday as he defended the policy direction to relax broad-based economic empowerment (B-BBEE) regulations in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector.

During a briefing with the Communications and Digital Technologies Portfolio Committee, Malatsi reiterated his commitment to the principles of transformation in South Africa, stating that the new policy does not aim to create exceptions for specific companies or individuals.

Malatsi, who highlighted the ongoing efforts to introduce an equity equivalent investment programme in the ICT sector, clarified that his department's work predates recent international developments, specifically referring to last week's visit to Washington by the South African delegation led by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Although critics suggest that the timing of the gazette could benefit Starlink, the satellite internet company owned by billionaire Elon Musk, Malatsi firmly dismissed these claims.

"This work is not about introducing dispensation for any individual or company," he asserted, emphasising the importance of consistent application of the B-BBEE Act and ensuring that transformation mirrors what is happening in other economic sectors.