Dear Matsie Angelina Motshekga,

Please send the BELA Bill back to the drawing board!
To amend means to improve. As matters stand the BELA Bill will not improve, but instead drastically alter current laws. Via the BELA Bill our government will take the power from parents, SGB- members and schools for itself. This bill is about control and will not be beneficial to the citizens of South Africa.

If the ideas contained in the BELA Bill are implemented then:
Parents could be criminalized for a range of matters.
Small schools could be closed without the government needing to give a good reason for taking such measures.
The Minister may make regulations regarding a range of issues.
SGB members will be expected to disclose their financial interests, the financial interests of their spouses/partners and family members.
The Government will have control over all public schools' language and admissions policies.

What is incredibly concerning is the fact that between 6000-9000 public submissions had not been considered before clause by clause deliberations. Few, if any, of the publics' voiced concerns were taken into consideration. Most clauses will remain as is!

I have done everything in my power to help others (who feel the way I do) keep this bill from passing as is. 1. I participated in the public participation process (JHB BELA Bill Hearings). 2. Along with numerous other dedicated individuals I made the public aware of how important their participation in the BELA Bill Hearings were. I believed that the more people spoke up, the better our chances to ensure a positive outcome. 3. I reached out to and had conversation/s with individuals who are involved in the educational sector. I am now reaching out to you. I am pleading with you to intervene. Listen to us. Do NOT let the bill pass as is!!!!!

Regards,
Stacey van der Walt