Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya has confirmed that President Cyril Ramaphosa will not support any attempts to bypass the law regarding the licensing of Starlink in South Africa. Magwenya emphasized that the president is committed to upholding the country’s legal framework and ensuring that all processes are followed according to established rules and regulations.
The statement comes amid controversy over Telecommunications Minister Solly Malatsi’s directive to relax ownership rules for foreign telecom companies, including Starlink. Under the directive, Starlink would be allowed to operate without meeting the 30% local black ownership requirement mandated by South Africa’s Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) laws. Critics, including the ANC, have argued that any changes to BEE regulations require parliamentary approval and that circumventing the law would undermine transformation and local economic participation.
Magwenya made it clear that President Ramaphosa does not endorse any unlawful measures and expects that government departments and agencies adhere strictly to legal and constitutional obligations. “The president will not endorse subversion of the law on the Starlink licence matter,” he stated, reinforcing Ramaphosa’s stance on compliance, transparency, and governance.
Observers note that the president’s position sends a strong message about the importance of the rule of law in South Africa, particularly when it comes to matters involving foreign investment and strategic sectors like telecommunications. By taking this stance, the presidency aims to balance the need for investment with protecting local economic interests and ensuring that transformation objectives are not compromised.
The controversy has sparked public debate about the role of government in regulating foreign investment and enforcing BEE policies. Analysts say that adherence to legal procedures is essential for maintaining public trust, especially when large multinational companies are involved.
Officials have emphasized that all stakeholders, including the Independent Communications Authority of South Africa (ICASA) and the relevant government departments, must operate within the law. The president’s position signals that while foreign investment is welcomed, it cannot come at the expense of South Africa’s legal framework or its socio-economic goals.
The Starlink licence matter continues to draw attention from political parties, civil society, and industry players, highlighting the tension between attracting investment and upholding domestic legislation.