New draft expropriation bill
Zuma talks tough on land, though repeat of Zimbabwe unlikely
Zuma is fighting to retain control of South Africa against opponents within the ruling ANC who want him to resign the party leadership.
The president said Parliament failed to facilitate adequate public participation during the processing of the bill.
President Jacob Zuma has asked Parliament to advise him on the processes followed.
The ANC has hailed yesterday’s passing of the Expropriation Bill as historic.
The NCOP passed the Bill last week with the support of all provinces except for the Western Cape.
The NCOP has adopted the Expropriation Bill, calling the move a ‘progressive step’.
Some MPs are unhappy and say the definitions are too broad, which can deter investment.
The bill is set to be adopted by Parliament’s Public Works Committee next week.
It says says the Bill gives the State sweeping powers because it doesn't define property as limited to land.
The bill allows for property to be taken over by the State for public purpose, such as building dams.
The department of public works complained that the Bill excluded the right to go to court.
Parliament’s Public Works Portfolio Committee has begun deliberating on the controversial draft law.
Govt says the bill aims to set out a clear and fair process to be followed when land is expropriated.
Cabinet approved the draft law which will replace the outdated Expropriation Act of 1975.
The bill allows for the expropriation of land and assets and will replace the Expropriation Act of 1975.
Government tried to get an earlier version of the bill passed in 2008.
Government is hoping to finalise the expropriation bill before the end of the year.