This document is a comparison of the proposed Counter Terrorism Act (CTA) with the current legal regime operating under the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and regulations made thereunder prepared by the Centre for Policy Alternatives (CPA). The present document is limited to a comparison with the PTA to ensure there is a timely comment on the CTA and to inform the public on specific areas critical for individual liberties and fundamental freedoms. Future publications will, however, provide a more detailed analysis of the provisions in the CTA, other laws with which the CTA can be compared with, and their operation.
As per recent reports in the media, it has been suggested that there will be further committee stage amendments brought to the CTA before it is passed by Parliament. As has been reiterated by CPA on numerous occasions, this procedure is regrettable as it prevents citizens challenging the provisions added to the proposed Bill in court. This is especially egregious in the case of a Bill such as this which will have a major impact on the liberties and rights of the citizens of this country.
CPA filed papers on the 17th of October 2018 intervening in one of the petitions challenging the proposed Counter Terrorism Bill.
Download this report here.
