The national land hearings have come to a close on Saturday in Jansenville, in the Eastern Cape.
The gathering was attended by farmers, residents and business owners, who voiced their opinions and concerns about the issue.
The hearings follow the motion made by Parliament to review Section 25 of the Constitution, which deals with property and land expropriation.
An afternoon, filled with loud and passionate voices. The province is the heart of the mohair industry in the country.
The debate on the amendment of Section 25 was a heated one in Jansenville.
Farmers feel that they have done a lot for black farmers by improving their skills and helping them start their own farms.
They say that changing the Section 25 will be detrimental to the economy.
Section 25 states that property may only be expropriated for public purpose or in the public interest.
The person can also opt for money instead of the land. But, the time and manner of payment must be agreed by those affected or decided by a court.
The chief of Khoi in the Jansenville area, Daantjie Japhta says the Khoi were the first people to exist.
He says he cannot support the Act until they are considered first.
“We are the first people of this land. We will only give support if you ask our permission. This is our land we are the first people.”
Residents and other members of the audience support change.
Now that the hearings are over, the people’s inputs will be referred back to Parliament where they will be reviewed before a decision is made.
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