Unlock this story — it’s free
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) has condemned Minister Solly Malatsi’s move to allow Elon Musk’s Starlink to operate in South Africa via a special government directive.
The party claims this directive bypasses Parliament and the legal requirements set by the Electronic Communications Act (ECA) and ICT Sector Code. Most notably, it allows Starlink to operate without meeting the 30% local BEE ownership requirement.
EFF says the directive is not just illegal, but also dangerous — potentially threatening local jobs, national security, and ICASA’s independence.
What the policy directive means
According to the EFF, the directive:
- Lets foreign satellite networks bypass BEE equity rules
- Undermines Parliament’s law-making authority
- Weakens ICASA’s independence by forcing compliance
- Could allow Starlink to control key infrastructure without local accountability
- Sets a precedent for corporate influence over government policy
What happened in Parliament
At a May 27th 2025 meeting of the Portfolio Committee on Communications and Digital Technologies, ICASA reportedly expressed discomfort over the legality of Malatsi’s actions. The EFF says the Minister failed to give clear answers on how or why Starlink was being favoured.
The party also believes the festive season was chosen deliberately to sneak the decision past scrutiny.
EFF’s demands and next steps
The EFF has vowed to use all available legal and political avenues to stop the directive:
- Urging ICASA to reject the instruction
- Challenging the legality in court
- Mobilising public protest and political pressure
- Demanding accountability from the GNU and Minister Malatsi
EFF warns that if deals or foreign support were promised in exchange for regulatory concessions, they must be cancelled and funds returned.
Summary: Key Concerns from the EFF
| Concern | EFF’s Position |
|---|---|
| BEE Ownership | Policy bypasses required 30% local equity |
| National Security | Starlink’s foreign control poses a long-term risk |
| ICASA Autonomy | Directive pressures ICASA to break its mandate |
| Legal Process | Parliament bypassed in favour of a directive |
| Elon Musk’s Role | Seen as hostile and politically biased by EFF |
