Ramaphosa Signs Contentious Education Bill, Partially Delays Its Implementation

President Cyril Ramaphosa has signed the controversial Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Bill into law during a special ceremony boycotted by Basic Education Minister Siviwe Gwarube who said she remained opposed to the legislation in its current form.

• The President's decision to sign off on the bill has been a bone of contention between his African National Congress (ANC) and foes-turned-allies from the Democratic Alliance (DA), the second largest party in the government of national unity (GNU).
• Despite initially warning that the signing of the bill could threaten the future of the GNU, DA leader John Steenhuisen sought to assuage concerns yesterday, playing down the potential for his party's exit from the ruling coalition.
• In a goodwill gesture, Ramaphosa announces that he will delay the implementation of the BELA Bill for three months to allow for a "window of consultation for a limited period."