BEE: Don’t Review – Repeal

Our Constitution sets the goalposts: dignity, equality, non-racialism and freedom (section 1). It allows remedial measures to advance those unfairly disadvantaged (section 9(2)). It does not say such measures are permanent, immune from evidence, or above review. Any remedy must be reasonable, proportionate and effective.

Free SA believes BEE, as currently designed and enforced, isn’t meeting that test. It rewards insiders who can game a complex system while millions remain locked out. It has turned too much economic activity into a points chase rather than a value-add race.

  • Closes: 28 February 2026
Make your voice heard
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In the media

Speak up, be heard, take a stand!

This is not the time for another technical “review”, it’s time to repeal B-BBEE. Free SA will be submitting a formal call for repeal to the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition on Monday, 2 February 2026. Your voice will be included. Join us in building an empowerment system based on fairness, effectiveness and inclusion, not racial categorisation and patronage.

Your submission will be included in Free SA’s formal engagement with government in February 2026. This is your chance to be heard and to help shape an economy that works for all.

More about this campaign

Key Concerns with B-BBEE and the Current Review

  • Fundamental Failure: After more than two decades, B-BBEE has not addressed unemployment or poverty at scale. Instead, it benefits a politically connected elite. On various measures, our economy is doing worse than ever before.

  • Constitutional Tensions: The Constitution allows remedial action, but not indefinite race-based policy. Without a sunset clause, B-BBEE may exceed its legal mandate.

  • Economic Harm: B-BBEE deters investment, distorts procurement, and prioritises points over productivity.

  • Corruption Enabler: The system has fostered inflated tenders, fronting, and patronage — undermining clean governance and accountability.

  • No End in Sight: The proposed review offers no clear direction, no criteria for success, and no commitment to eventual repeal — only more entrenchment.

What we're advocating for

  • Full repeal of the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment Act and all associated legislation.

  • A new empowerment framework based on need, not race — focused on poverty, unemployment, and structural exclusion.

  • Constitutional alignment: Policy must be proportionate, effective, and subject to review. Permanent racial classification violates this.

How you can help

  • Sign your name above to add your voice to Free SA’s official submission to the Minister.

  • Share this campaign with your networks — on social media, in your community, and with colleagues.

  • Challenge the status quo: Speak out in favour of empowerment that works for all, not just the well-connected few.

  • Stay informed: Follow Free SA for updates on legislation, public submissions, and government accountability.

In the media

News24 Article
City Press Article
The Economist Article
BusinessTech Article

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