NATIONAL NEWS - The Government of National Unity (GNU) clearing house mechanism has formed a task team to address concerns raised by various parties regarding the Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Act.

This follows a meeting on Wednesday where leaders discussed the act, particularly two clauses that have been a focus of concern for some members who signed the GNU’s statement of intent.

The deputy president’s office reported that most parties involved in the GNU structure attended the meeting.

“The meeting noted the need to resolve the matter within the three-month period allocated by President Cyril Ramaphosa.

“Following extensive engagement, the clearing house mechanism agreed to establish a small team to address the specific concerns raised by certain parties.”

The team includes Deputy Minister Andries Nel, Dr Cornelius Mulder from the Freedom Front Plus, Brett Herron from the GOOD Party, Helen Zille from the DA, and Mdumiseni Ntuli from the ANC.

In September, Ramaphosa signed the bill into law but postponed the implementation of clauses 4 and 5 — addressing school admissions and language policies — by three months to allow for further discussion and deliberation in light of opposition to these clauses.

The deputy president’s office stated that the task team has been given two weeks to work and report back to the clearing house mechanism.

“The meeting also agreed on the need to set aside party-political interests and seek a solution for the benefit of all South Africans.”

The GNU clearing house mechanism, established by President Ramaphosa last month and led by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, aims to address policy disagreements within the 10-member GNU regarding policy agreements and disputes. 

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