Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Rebecca Davis
Published on 2024-03-28 10:04:25
The Cape Independence Party and the Referendum Party in South Africa have been advocating for a referendum that could potentially lead to the Western Cape province seceding from the rest of the country. The CapeXit campaign, which originated in 2007, has gained momentum in recent years with the Cape Independence Party winning over 19,000 votes in the 2021 local government elections.
The campaign argues that the Western Cape is held back from reaching its full potential due to its legal and political ties to the rest of South Africa. Critics have accused the movement of using dog-whistle racism by highlighting the province’s racial demographics as a justification for independence.
Supporters of Cape secession point to opinion polls, like the recent one conducted by Victory Research, which suggests that a majority of Western Cape residents are in favor of secession. However, the sample size of these polls is relatively small, casting doubt on the validity of the results.
Despite the popularity of the idea, the legal feasibility of secession is questionable. The Freedom Front Plus believes that granting more powers to the Western Cape, potentially leading to secession, is not impossible in Africa where anything is deemed possible. However, the DA has proposed the Western Cape Provincial Powers Bill to grant the province more autonomy without the need for secession.
Legal experts raise concerns about the constitutionality of devolving core government functions to provinces, let alone allowing a province to secede. UCT law professor Pierre de Vos suggests that a constitutional amendment would likely be necessary for a province to take on responsibilities like policing.
Advocates for Western Cape secession suggest holding a referendum as the first step, but even if one takes place, the results would not be legally binding and could be ignored. Ultimately, the power to bring about secession lies with the national executive and Parliament, making it challenging for any province to assert itself as a separate country.
Despite the efforts of CapeXit parties, including the Cape Independence Party and the Referendum Party, they may be offering voters unrealistic promises. The legal and political landscape of South Africa does not currently align with the idea of a province seceding, making it a far-fetched proposition at this time.
Read the original article on Daily Maverick
