Western Cape government backs new bill to curb illegal land occupations

The Western Cape Government threw its full support behind the Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land Amendment Bill.

The national government gazetted the bill for public comment on Thursday after it was approved by Cabinet two weeks ago.

The bill aimed to strengthen existing law by giving government officials and property owners clearer powers to respond to illegal occupations.

Human Settlements Minister Thembi Simelane said the new amendments would make the law easier to enforce.

Weighing in on the matter, Western Cape MEC for infrastructure Tertuis Simmers said unlawful land and building occupations were placing severe pressure on municipalities, communities, and government budgets.

"This amendment bill is a decisive step toward restoring the rule of law within our communities. For too long, organised land invasions have bypassed housing waiting lists, sabotaged critical infrastructure projects, and exploited the most vulnerable members of our society," he said.

Simmers welcomed the proposed amendments, saying they struck a balance between stronger law enforcement and protecting the rights of vulnerable people.