The Minister of Law and Justice, honourable Richard Ramoeletsi, has announced that several sections of the Administration of Estates and Inheritance Act 2 of 2024 require review and possible reform.

He said the executive and Parliament will revisit the law once Parliament officially opens. Ramoeletsi explained that the Act has played an important role in addressing gender imbalance, particularly by ensuring that girls are also entitled to inherit from their parents, a move that has promoted equality in inheritance matters.

However, he noted that challenges remain in the implementation of the law, adding that one of the major concerns raised is that some individuals who assist beneficiaries referred to as appraisers by complainants demand a percentage of the inheritance as payment, often taking large sums of money.

According to the Minister, sections 9, 64, and 93 of the Act are the most contested, as they have generated numerous public complaints.

He further said the Office of the Master of the High Court conducted outreach visits to various districts to educate communities on how inheritance processes work.

Ramoeletsi mentioned that during these visits, principal chiefs and Members of Parliament raised concerns, stating that the law does not work effectively for their communities.

Mr. Ramoeletsi added that the Act also reforms and amends other inheritance related laws in the country, which has contributed to confusion and dissatisfaction among the public. He acknowledged that many complaints arise from the perception that those administering or assisting with estates benefit more than the rightful heirs.

He further highlighted the availability of legal aid services for vulnerable individuals who cannot afford legal fees. The Minister said the Ministry of Law and Justice has completed its review of the problematic sections and will present the proposed reforms to Parliament once it reconvenes.