Pres. Cyril Ramaphosa has asked parliament to reconsider the so-called mule law after it has been in since the term of ex-president in 2013.
In addition to the State Information Protection Bill, Ramaphosa also asked Parliament to review the Liquor Products Amendment Bill because of concerns that certain aspects of it could be unconstitutional.
Both bills were approved by parliament, but were never ratified by the president.
According to a statement released by the presidency on Friday, Ramaphosa believes the State Information Protection Bill could have a “jarring effect” on free speech.
“The president believes that the bill restricts the freedom of the media. . . and prevent people from accessing certain information from the state, ”the statement reads.
Under the bill, the state can classify sensitive information.
Ramaphosa is concerned that the bill could cause corruption and maladministration, because whistleblowers could be prosecuted that reveal classified documents.
Furthermore, the president is of the view that the law can be challenged in court on the grounds that the restrictions are vague and irrational.
According to the statement, Ramaphosa is also concerned that the Liquor Products Amendment Bill has not followed the correct legal procedures.
It provides for certain requirements regarding beer, traditional beer and other alcoholic beverages. Among other things, it contains instructions on how to make traditional beers, and what their contents should be.
Ramaphosa is of the opinion that the amendment bill should first refer to the National House of Traditional Leaders in terms of legislation.
“The president’s view is based on the fact that traditional beer is an intrinsic part of a number of cultural practices. Traditional practices require the production and consumption of such drinks to be done in a specific way. “
Ramaphosa believes the bill will regulate how traditional beers are produced and therefore will affect its production, distribution and consumption.
