Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube issued a stern warning against using the newly authorized Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Act as a political weapon, promising harsh consequences for those who attempt to victimize schools or students.

“Our schools are not the battleground for narrow political interests,” Gwarube declared during a media briefing following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s authorization of the Act. “I will not allow any school to be abused.”

The Minister announced plans to develop comprehensive guidelines for all public schools and provincial education departments by January 2025. Draft regulations, norms, and standards will be published for public comment by June 2025.

Despite being a Democratic Alliance member in the government of national unity, Gwarube affirmed her commitment to implementing the Act. “This implementation will be done in a manner that protects the rights of all our children and all our schools from victimization,” she said.

The African National Congress welcomed the Act’s implementation, with national spokesperson Mahlengi Bhengu-Motsiri calling it “a victory for constitutional values.” The ANC criticized opposition to the Act as “baseless fearmongering” aimed at maintaining “outdated language hierarchies.”

The Bela Act has faced strong opposition from parties within the government of national unity, particularly the Democratic Alliance, highlighting political tensions surrounding South Africa’s education reform efforts.