The South African government has approved several crucial bills that aim to address various issues and concerns. These bills have now reached the end of the legislative process, awaiting President Cyril Ramaphosa’s approval before they become law.
Eskom Debt Relief Bill
One of the bills expected to be signed into law is the Eskom Debt Relief Bill. This legislation aims to provide debt relief to the struggling public utility Eskom by cancelling its outstanding debts. The appropriation bill will support this debt relief plan by allocating funds from the National Revenue Fund. The budget for the plan includes a full debt settlement requirement of R184 billion over the medium term and a direct takeover of Eskom’s loan portfolio in 2025/26, amounting to R70 billion.
Financial Matters Amendment Bill
The Financial Matters Amendment Bill seeks to bring changes to pension-related, monetary, and auditing provisions. The bill targets eight existing laws, including the Associated Institutions Pension Fund Act and the Military Pensions Act, and aims to address past discrimination against life partners of military pensioners. Upon the amendment’s effective date, these individuals will be able to retroactively claim benefits. Additionally, the bill streamlines processes and ensures fair treatment for pensioners and their life partners under the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF).
Constitution Eighteenth Amendment Bill
The Constitution Eighteenth Amendment Bill seeks to grant official language status to South African Sign Language. This amendment aims to uphold the rights of individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, ensuring equal protection, benefit of the law, and human dignity. Once approved, South African Sign Language will join the eleven other official languages recognized by the South African Constitution.
South African Postbank Limited Amendment Bill
The South African Postbank Limited Amendment Bill proposes transferring the shareholding of Postbank from the South African Post Office (SAPO) to the government and establishing a Bank Controlling Company (BCC) as a holding company for the bank. The amendments in this bill aim to facilitate Postbank’s registration as a Bank Controlling Company, enabling it to operate as a full-fledged bank.
These impending legislative changes reflect the South African government’s commitment to addressing pressing issues and improving the lives of its citizens. With the potential to impact the financial security of military pensioners and their life partners, as well as the establishment of a state-owned bank, these bills represent significant strides in South Africa’s ongoing development. As these bills await President Ramaphosa’s signature, they signal progress in various sectors, from public utility debt relief to the recognition of sign language as an official means of communication.
