South Africa's coalition threatened by new education law

South Africa's governing coalition faces a critical test as President Cyril Ramaphosa signs the controversial Basic Education Laws Amendment (Bela) Bill into law.

The bill, passed before May's election, introduces sweeping changes such as national regulation of school admissions and language policies, compulsory Grade R education, and stricter penalties for corporal punishment.

It has sparked fierce opposition, particularly from the Democratic Alliance (DA) and the Afrikaans-speaking community, who argue it infringes on language rights and could undermine Afrikaans schools.

Despite the ANC's push for these reforms to address educational inequalities, the DA's leader, John Steenhuisen, has warned that the bill could lead to a coalition crisis if the ANC proceeds without accommodating their concerns.

The outcome could significantly impact the stability of the current coalition government.