Military Discipline Bill withdrawn in South Africa

The Military Discipline Bill, B21 of 2019, has been withdrawn from legislative action in South Africa, to afford an opportunity for further study and comment. DefenceWeb writes:

The bill, which seeks to provide for effective administration of the military justice system and maintenance of discipline in the national defence force, was retracted by Defence and Military Veterans Minister, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, in accordance with rule 334 of the National Assembly Rules to allow for further consultation on its contents according to a Parliamentary Communication Services statement.

It appears the bill’s withdrawal follows only minimal input during a short period allowed for public comment. Thirteen were received. They will now go to the Department of Defence (DoD) for consideration and possible inclusion in a review of the Bill before it is resubmitted to Parliament.

If enacted, the measure would replace the Military Discipline Supplementary Measures Act, which was passed by Parliament in 1999.