Cape Town - President Jacob Zuma has referred the controversial Protection of State Information Bill back to the National Assembly.
Hosting a lunch for members of the parliamentary Press Gallery Association on Thursday, Zuma said he did not think the bill would pass constitutional muster and had therefore sent it back to the Assembly for consideration.
“I have given consideration to the Bill in its entirety and the various opinions and commentaries regarding the constitutionality and tagging of the Bill.
“After consideration of the Bill and having applied my mind thereto, I am of the view that the Bill as it stands does not pass constitutional muster,” Zuma said.
“In this regard, I have referred the Bill to the National Assembly for reconsideration insofar as sections of the Bill, in particular Sections 42 and 45, lack meaning and coherence, consequently are irrational and accordingly are unconstitutional,” the president said. - Sapa