eMbalenhle residents hear land invasion instigators can be fined R2m according to new bill
The Department of Human Settlements outlined proposed changes to address shortcomings in the current legislation while balancing property rights with the constitutional right to housing.
The proposed amendments to the Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land (PIE) Act could see individuals who instigate illegal land invasions facing fines of up to R2m if the new Prevention of Illegal Eviction from and Unlawful Occupation of Land (PIE) Amendment Bill is adopted.
The Department of Human Settlements hosted a public information session at Kgotso Hall in eMbalenhle on May 21, bringing together residents and stakeholders to discuss proposed amendments to the 1998 PIE Act.
Judgemore Tshikomba, senior legal admin officer at the Department of Human Settlements, led the engagement and outlined proposed changes to address shortcomings in the current legislation while balancing property rights with the constitutional right to housing.
Among the key proposals is the criminalisation of individuals who organise or incite unlawful land occupations for financial gain.
The Bill also proposes mandatory mediation as the first step in resolving disputes, to reduce lengthy, costly court battles related to evictions.
In addition, stricter conditions would be introduced for courts when considering eviction applications.
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The amendments further seek to clarify municipalities’ responsibilities, particularly regarding the provision of alternative accommodation for people facing eviction.
The Department emphasised the importance of public participation in shaping a fair and enforceable legal framework.
Feedback gathered during the session will be used to refine the draft legislation before it proceeds through the legislative process.
Residents and stakeholders who were unable to attend the session can still submit written comments before the June 16 deadline.
Submissions can be emailed to PIE.AmendmentBill@dhs.gov.za or hand-delivered to the Department of Human Settlements at 240 Justice Mahommed Street, Sunnyside, Pretoria, for the attention of Lisa Masilo.
Following the close of the public comment period, the revised Bill is expected to be presented to Cabinet in July before being formally tabled in Parliament shortly thereafter.
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