The Democratic Alliance in the Northern Cape has welcomed a High Court ruling declaring the Northern Cape Gambling and Liquor Act of 2024 unconstitutional due to inadequate public participation.
The party is calling for an urgent meeting with provincial authorities, including MEC for Finance Venus Blennies-Magage, to clarify the legal status of liquor traders and outline a response to the judgment.
The DA says the ruling reflects longstanding concerns from communities about weak regulation and poor consultation in the liquor licensing process.
DA Fawzia Rhoda says they concern about the validity of other legislation passed under similar processes, including the Northern Cape Economic Development, Trade and Investment Promotion Agency Act of 2024.
The party has pledged to push for stronger oversight, including regular police inspections of liquor outlets, to ensure community safety and accountability.