In terms of section 13 of interpretation act and section 123 of the constitution, when does the legislation become operational / commences

Let's look at when legislation becomes operational:

• Section 13 of the Interpretation Act 33 of 1957: This section states that legislation comes into operation on the date of its publication in the Gazette, unless the legislation itself specifies a different date. If no specific date is mentioned within the Act, it commences on the day it is published.

• Section 123 of the Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996: This section confirms that an Act of Parliament takes effect when it has been signed by the President and published in the Gazette, or on a later date determined in terms of the Act.

Therefore, legislation generally becomes operational or commences on the date it is published in the Government Gazette, unless the Act itself explicitly states a later commencement date.