Pretoria: South Africans are urged to have their voices heard on approved pieces of legislation related to illegal mining, the legal fraternity, the administration of trusts, and incitement to commit offences. At a media briefing on Tuesday, Justice and Constitutional Development Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi briefed South Africans on the General (Mining) Laws Amendment Bill 2026, the Legal Practice Amendment Bill 2026, the Regulation of Trusts Bill, and the Conspiracy, Instigation and Incitement to Commit Offence Bill 2026.

According to South African Government News Agency, the first three bills have been released for public comment, while the Conspiracy, Instigation and Incitement to Commit Offence Bill 2026 will now go to Parliament for processing and adoption. Regarding the General (Mining) Laws Amendment Bill, Kubayi emphasised that the bill is not aimed at penalising artisanal miners who have permits but is aimed at cracking down on those who mine illegally, known as Zama Zamas.

Kubayi highlighted the severe consequences of illicit mining, noting its adverse effects on communities, infrastructure damage, and links to violent crimes. The bill seeks to criminalize illicit mining activities and amend legislation such as the Criminal Procedure Act, the Diamonds Act, the Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act, and the Precious Metals Act, introducing significant penalties for offenders.

The Legal Practice Amendment Bill 2026 aims to amend the Legal Practice Act of 2014. The amendments focus on enhancing the skills of legal practitioners, ensuring access to the legal profession, and addressing practical challenges in the Act's application. Specific amendments include changes to the powers of the South African Legal Practice Council and adjustments to the Legal Practitioners' Fidelity Fund appropriations.

The Regulation of Trusts Bill seeks to update the Trust Property Control Act of 1988 to address accountability and transparency issues within trust management. The bill aims to protect beneficiaries, align with international standards, and prevent misuse of trust structures for illicit activities.

Lastly, the Conspiracy, Instigation and Incitement to Commit Offence Bill 2026 proposes the repeal of the outdated Riotous Assemblies Act of 1956, which is rooted in apartheid-era legislation. The new bill aims to modernize the legal framework concerning incitement and conspiracy to commit offences, defining serious offences and their penalties.

Stakeholders, including civil society, business, labor, and the public, are encouraged to participate in the commentary process to strengthen these legislative initiatives. The full documents of the bills are available on the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development's website, and the closing date for submissions is 11 September 2026.