Call for Input: Prevention & Combatting of Corrupt Activities Amendment Bill

Posted 13 March 2026 Written by Acts Online
Category Justice

Brought to you by SA Legal Academy: In terms of the procedurally required pre-tabling process for private member’s Bills, a notice has been gazetted calling for public input on a proposed amendment to the Prevention & Combatting of Corrupt Activities Act, No. 12 of 2004.

The notice, issued by Member of Parliament Dereleen James, includes an explanatory memorandum outlining the intended legislative changes. The primary objective of the amendment is to enhance the existing framework to ensure that penalties for corruption are “effective, proportionate and dissuasive,” in accordance with international best practices.

Stakeholders and interested parties have until 12 April 2026 to submit comments on the proposed amendments. The envisaged legislation aims to achieve the following:

  • Strengthening the enforcement mechanisms of the Prevention & Combatting of Corrupt Activities Act, No. 12 of 2004.
  • Updating penalty provisions to ensure they serve as a sufficient deterrent against corrupt practices.
  • Aligning South African anti-corruption law with international benchmarks and best practices.

What this means for you, your business, or your clients

  • For yourself: No direct individual obligations; impact channelled through firm-level compliance and reporting duties.
  • For your business: Review existing anti-bribery and corruption (ABC) policies to prepare for potentially stricter enforcement and higher penalty thresholds.
  • For your clients: Advise clients in high-risk sectors or those involved in public procurement to enhance their internal controls and due diligence processes in anticipation of legislative tightening.

Originally published at https://legalacademy.co.za/news/read/corruption-actionsa-calls-for-input-on-amending-legislation

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