Five new laws in South Africa are nearing the end of the legislative process and are awaiting President Cyril Ramaphoa’s signature to be assented. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Bills look at the creation of a new state-owned bank, repealing apartheid-era laws, the formation of a new court and more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
All five of these Bills have passed through the National Assembly and National Council of Provinces and require the sign-off from the President to be enacted. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Although extremely unlikely, Ramaphosa can choose not to sign the Bills into law if he has concerns over their constitutionality.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This happened in 1999, when then-president Nelson Mandela referred the Liquor Bill to the Constitutional Court despite passing through the NA and NCOP. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Court ruled that the Bill was unconstitutional, showing that the South African President has substantial power in passing laws in South Africa. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, with 2024 being an election year and the ANC needing legislation for its election campaign, it is highly improbable that Ramaphosa will refer any of these matters to the Constitutional Court.<\/p>\n\n\n\n