Parliament, Friday, 26 June 2026 – The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development invites interested individuals, organisations and stakeholders to submit written comments on the International Cooperation in Criminal Matters Amendment Bill, which is currently before the committee for consideration.
The Bill seeks to amend the International Co-operation in Criminal Matters Act OF 1996 to strengthen South Africa’s framework for international cooperation in criminal matters. Among other things, the proposed legislation seeks to insert certain definitions, facilitate the provision of evidence to entities to ensure that South Africa complies with its international obligations, provide for the giving of evidence by means of audio-visual link, and provide for matters incidental thereto.
Committee Chairperson Mr Xola Nqola said public participation remains one of the cornerstones of Parliament's legislative process and encouraged all interested parties to make their views known.
“The committee is committed to ensuring that this legislation benefits from meaningful public participation. The Bill deals with matters that are increasingly relevant in a world where criminal activity often crosses national borders and where effective international cooperation is essential to the administration of justice. We therefore encourage legal practitioners, civil society organisations, academics, law enforcement agencies and members of the public to study the Bill and submit their comments,” the Chairperson said.
The Chairperson added that the committee values diverse perspectives and will carefully consider all submissions received before finalising its deliberations on the Bill.
Interested persons and organisations wishing to make oral presentations to the committee are requested to indicate this in their written submissions. Written submissions must be received by 12:00 on Friday, 24 July 2026. Submissions should be emailed to Cooperation@parliament.gov.za. Enquiries may be directed to Mr V Ramaano on 083 709 8427. Copies of the Bill are available from Mr Ramaano or on the Parliament website at https://www.parliament.gov.za/committee-notice-details/954
ISSUED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY COMMUNICATION SERVICES ON BEHALF OF THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON JUSTICE AND CONSTITUTIONAL DEVELOPMENT, MR XOLA NQOLA.
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