The highly controversial transport laws and related matters amendment bill was withdrawn on Thursday 22 November from the National Assembly. The ANC asked that two resolutions paving the way for the bill be withdrawn. No reasons were given for the action and the request was approved by the House.



A memorandum attached to the bill includes provisions that are essential to implement e-tolling and the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project (GFIP) as well as other proposed road and infrastructure projects in South Africa. 



Ian Ollis, DA spokesperson said that “pressure from opposition parties has pressed the ANC to withdraw. This means that the Gauteng e-toll will not be the anticipated lump of coal in Christmas stockings this year.” 



Buckling under pressure



After a call by DA chief whip Watty Watson which was supported by other parties, and a threat by the opposition to stage a walkout during the debate on the e-toll bill, the ANC withdrew the bill.

The e-toll debate will be carried over into the new year and will be re-considered when Parliament reconvenes on 10 February 2013. The bill will then be sent to the National Council of Provinces.

“This is indeed a victory for opposition parties and the South African public. We will be monitoring the situation closely to ensure that all proper processes are followed when this bill is considered by Parliament in 2013 and that adequate public participation has taken place through the NCOP,” Ollis said.