The story in Business Day, entitled "Zuma sits on banks scrutiny legislation", 05 September 2016, on the Financial Intelligence Centre Amendment Bill which has been brought to the President for his consideration and assent is misleading and incorrect.
The writer, Ms Carol Paton states the following as being the reasons why the Bill has not yet been signed into law:
"The developments form part of an orchestrated attack by parts of the government and the ANC aligned to Zuma on the Treasury, Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan, and the Reserve Bank, with a view to clipping their independence and powers".
This is a gross distortion of the facts.
The President received an objection to the signing of the bill from the Progressive Professionals Forum. When the President is petitioned not to sign a bill, he has to consider the merits of such objection focusing mainly on whether the interested parties raise valid constitutional issues.
It is not the first time that the President has taken time to consider a bill for similar reasons. Currently, the President has not signed the Expropriation Bill, the Private Security Industry Regulation Amendment Bill and the Protection of State Information Bill, because various parties petitioned him not to do so, citing concerns about their constitutionality. All These concerns are being looked into.
He also sent the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Amendment Bill back to the National Assembly in 2015 on the ground that certain provisions of the Bill are unconstitutional.
Journalists are urged to stick to the facts and ensure balance and fairness in the coverage of news and current affairs.
Enquiries:
Dr Bongani Ngqulunga
Cell: 082 308 9373
E-mail: bongani@presidency.gov.za
