SALGA welcomes Cabinet’s approval of bill to prevent illegal eviction

The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) has welcomed Cabinet’s approval to publish the Prevention of Illegal Eviction Amendment Bill for public comment.

SALGA said that the proposed changes aim to address long-standing challenges in the implementation of the law, including land invasions and uncertainties affecting some municipalities.

The organisation is calling for the public to participate in the consultation process, with submissions open for 60 days following the bill’s publication.

The chairperson for the Human Settlements working group, Xolani Sotashe, describes the move as a step towards strengthening land management while balancing the right to housing.

“The amendment bill is therefore a critical intervention. It strengthens the ability of municipalities and other landowners to uphold the constitutional right to shelter while simultaneously rooting out lawlessness and exploitation. It ensures that the protection of vulnerable households remains at the heart of our legal framework, but also that municipalities are empowered to act decisively against those WHO manipulate law for personal gain.”