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The subject of expropriation of land without compensation gained momentum with the Expropriation Bill’s gazetting on 9 October 2020.
However, before finalisation, Newcastillians still have time to have their say.
This follows the Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure, extending the deadline for written submissions on the Expropriation Bill [B23-2020] to Sunday, 28 February 2021. The committee is inviting stakeholders and interested persons to submit their written submissions on this version of the Expropriation Bill—as according to Government, the Bill’s purpose is to repeal the existing Expropriation Act 63 of 1975.
The gazetted Bill also seeks to provide a common framework in line with the Constitution to guide the processes and procedures for expropriation of property by organs of state. It also provides for instances where expropriation with nil compensation may be just and equitable. Notably, the Bill provides for an appeals process for owners of expropriated property, by following uniformed, constitutional procedures.
These instances include the following:
- Where the land is not being used, and the owner’s primary purpose is not to develop the land or use it to generate income but to benefit from the appreciation of its market value.
- Where an organ of state holds land that it is not using for its core functions and is not reasonably likely to need the land for its future activities in that regard, and the organ of the state acquired the land for no consideration.
- Where an owner has abandoned land by failing to exercise control over it.
- Where the market value of the land is equivalent to, or less than, the present value of direct state investment or subsidy in the acquisition and beneficial capital improvement of the land.
- When the nature or condition of the property poses a health, safety or physical risk to persons or other property.
As previously reported on by The Newcastillian – Online News, before the process is implemented, the landowner will first need to receive a notice, well in advance. The landowner will then have an opportunity to object.
Read more: New Expropriation Bill 2020 officially gazetted. Here are the terms and how it will work
With the Expropriation Bill affecting hundreds of landowners, you can ensure your voice is heard by participating in the written submissions.
For those willing to participate in the process, you should complete the submission form on this link: https://forms.gle/UqG2TXTBNzhsy45i8
Alternatively, send a “Hi” via WhatsApp to 060 550 9848 to access the same link. Moreover, Newcastillians can also email their submissions to [email protected].
Remembering, submissions must be received by no later than 28 February 2021. Interested persons are also requested to indicate their interest in making a verbal presentation.
Will you be making your submission or remain silent? Share your views with us in the comment section below.
