NCOP adopt Expropriation Bill

18 May 2016

The Chairperson of the Select Committee on Economic and Business Development, Mr Boingotlo Nthebe, has described as progressive the adoption of the Expropriation Bill by the House.

“The Bill is consistent with the Constitution and will make sure that the land – which is much needed for infrastructural projects – is availed without bringing about constitutional challenges. This Bill is not replacing the need and commitment by this administration for consultation,” Mr Nthebe said.

“This Bill is about our people and it is taking into consideration the developmental needs of our people,” he said.

The NCOP adopted the amended Bill, which seeks to ensure consistency with provisions of the Constitution, in particular the equality clause, property clause, administrative action and extension of the purpose for expropriation to include public interest.

All the outstanding mandates have since been received, including the Free State (not Limpopo, as erroneously stated last week).

“Generally, provinces see the value and importance of a Bill such as this one, given the country’s historical realities and our nation’s developmental needs,” Mr Nthebe said.

Issued by Sibongile Maputi, Parliamentary Communication Services on behalf of the Chairperson, Boingotlo Nthebe, 18 May 2016